Avian influenza

Avian influenza

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Chicken Headshot

Low pathogenic avian flu of the H5 strain was confirmed at a commercial chicken farm in Mid Suffolk, on Tuesday 10 December 2019.

It is vital that poultry farmers focus on good biosecurity to keep Avian Influenza out of their farms. The virus is in the environment and we cannot afford any complacency.

This is now a high-risk period for Avian influenza, so please read our three 3 key messages. 

Enhanced biosecurity all of the time

  • Do not house different species together
  • Minimise contact with wild birds, i.e. keep food and water inside
  • Restrict access to visitors and keep records of visits
  • Ensure you have  the facility to house birds in the event of a Mandatory Housing Order
  • Check to see if you are in a high-risk area
  • Use government-approved disinfectants at the correct dilution

Vigilance

Look out for signs. These can vary from species to species. Signs can include:

  • coughing 
  • sneezing 
  • lethargy
  • diarrhoea
  • reduced food and water intake
  • swollen head
  • blue discolouration of neck and throat

Prompt reporting of any suspicion of disease

  • Contact your vet if you notice an increase in mortality or production
  • Contact APHA immediately to organise an APHA vet to visit the premises

For more information

Avian influenza on UK.GOV

Avian influenza readiness webinar on NFU

Date: 12 Dec 2019