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Bird flu outbreak on Yorkshire duck farm
ducks
Investigations are underway to see if the outbreak is linked with recent cases in Germany and the Netherlands.

First UK case of the H5 strain confirmed since 2008

Defra has confirmed a bird flu outbreak on a duck breeding farm in Yorkshire. Initial testing has confirmed the H5 strain of bird flu which has not been reported in the UK since 2008.

Health officials have ruled out the possibility of the H5N1 strain that is infectious for humans. The outbreak was confirmed on Sunday afternoon and is said to present a very low risk to human health.

All 6,000 birds on the farm are being culled and a 10km restriction zone has been imposed to prevent further spread of the infection.

Restriction zones ban the movement of poultry, products and waste from the affected area. Poultry must be isolated within the zone, fairs, shows and exhibitions are prohibited and game birds must not be released.

Investigations are underway to see if the outbreak is linked with recent cases in Germany and the Netherlands. Further test results are expected this week.

Certain strains of bird flu can pass to humans, though cases are rare and infection usually requires close contact with infected birds.

As new strains of the avian influenza virus emerge frequently, there is a risk one of these strains may be able to spread from human to human. However, there is currently no evidence to suggest a recent strain of bird flu can transmit between people.

According to advice from the Food Standards Agency, it is safe to eat poultry and poultry products such as eggs, assuming they are properly cooked.

Image ©Katie Chodil/Wikipedia CC-BY-2.0

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
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Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.