Cases of Avian Influenza (H5N1), commonly known as “bird flu”, have been confirmed in poultry at a premises near Lazonby, Westmorland and Furness, Cumbria over the weekend.
These are the first confirmed cases of avian influenza confirmed in Westmorland and Furness this year. The current risk to human health remains low and properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone has been declared around the premises and all affected birds on the premises will be humanely culled.
If you live within the disease control zone you must follow the rules for that zone and check if you need a licence to move poultry, poultry by-products, eggs, material or mammals.
Keepers of wild or captive birds are being asked to look for any signs of disease whilst ensuring good levels of biosecurity at their premises.
If you suspect your captive birds have bird flu, you must report it immediately, it is an offence not to. More advice and guidance for bird keepers can be found on the government website.
Councillor John Murray, Cabinet Member for Transport and Regulatory Services, said:
“Although the risk to human health is low, it’s really important that bird keepers, residents and businesses adhere to the strict biosecurity measures in place to prevent further spread.
“If members of the public find dead wild birds, do not pick them up, touch them or try to move them. Report them immediately by phone on 03459 33 55 77.”