Outbreak of bird flu confirmed in west Cornwall
Defra has confirmed avian influenza was found in captive wild birds
Last updated 20th Aug 2022
An outbreak of avian influenza, known as bird flu, has been confirmed in west Cornwall.
The Department for Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), says it was found in wild captive birds near Newlyn.
The announcement, made on Friday 19th August, means a 3km Captive Bird Controlled Monitoring Zone has been put in place around the premises and affected birds will be humanely culled.
Statement from Defra
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 19 August in captive wild birds (non-poultry) at a premises near Newlyn, Cornwall. A 3km Captive Bird (Monitoring) Controlled Zone has been put in place around the premises.
Affected birds will be humanely culled.
Details of the measures, which include housing of poultry and captive birds and a ban on release of game birds, that apply in these zones can be found in the declaration.
Advice from Defra
Defra says that while the risk level in kept birds has reduced, all bird keepers should still follow enhanced biosecurity measures at all times to prevent the risk of future outbreaks.
All poultry gatherings, including at fairs, shows and markets, remain banned, due to a large number of flocks mixing together and the risk posed by any infections spreading across the country.
Additional mandatory restrictions apply in disease control zones in force surrounding infected premises where avian influenza has been confirmed in poultry or other captive birds.
The full list of biosecurity measures, such as disinfecting vehicles which may be contaminated, can be found on the DEFRA website.