10,500 turkeys to be culled at Northallerton farm
It's because of a strain of Avian flu - but the risk to public health is low
Last updated 29th Nov 2020
More than 10,000 turkeys are set to be culled at a turkey fattening site in Northallerton, after avian flu of the strain H5N8 was discovered there.
A 3km and 10km temporary control zone has been established, but the Government says little risk is posed to public health, and the strain of the virus does not affect food safety.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs says properly cooked poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
The UK's Chief Vetinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, who advises the Government on animal welfare, says "immediate steps" were taken to stop the disease spreading when it was discovered.
She said: "Bird keepers should remain alert for any signs of disease, report suspected disease immediately and ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises.
"We are urgently looking for any evidence of disease spread associated with this farm to control and eliminate it.''
Dr Gavin Dabrera, consultant in acute respiratory infections at Public Health England, added that the H5N8 strain has never been discovered in humans.
He said: "Bird keepers should remain alert for any signs of disease, report suspected disease immediately and ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises.
"We are urgently looking for any evidence of disease spread associated with this farm to control and eliminate it.''
Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.