AVAIN flu restrictions put in place to deal with an outbreak at a country estate remain in place.

The restriction first came into force after the outbreak that hit Eastnor Castle Estate, near Ledbury on February 25.

A message on gov.uk is showing that the three kilometre protection zone, and and 10 kilometre surveillance zone, remains in place around the premises.

Herefordshire Council is working with the APHA, DEFRA and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) West Midlands to respond to the incident.

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) is in place that makes it a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors and to follow strict biosecurity measures.

 

READ MORE: Outbreak of bird flu at Eastnor Castle Estate

 

The national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone means that it is a legal requirement that bird keepers across the country must:

  • House or net all poultry and captive birds to keep them separate from wild birds
  • Cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
  • Reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective vermin control
  • Thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing on a continuous basis
  • Keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points
  • Minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds

Bird keepers should visit the gov.uk website for full details of the AIPZ and updated biosecurity guidance.

 

What to do if you find a dead or sick bird

 

Do not touch or pick up any dead or sick birds that you find.

If you find dead swans, geese or ducks or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the DEFRA helpline on: 03459 33 55 77.

Keepers should report any suspicion of disease to Animal and Plant Health Agency on: 03000 200 301.