Cases of the highly pathogenic H5N8 strain of avian flu have been confirmed in the Netherlands and East Yorkshire.

Guidance issued in light of recent outbreaks of H5N8

In the wake of recent outbreaks of avian flu, veterinary organisations have issued advice for backyard poultry keepers.

Cases of the highly pathogenic H5N8 strain of avian flu have been confirmed in the Netherlands and East Yorkshire. Although veterinary organisations say the threat to poultry keepers is low, there is a risk that migrating birds could be carrying H5N8.

Prevention is key for both large-scale commercial operations and individuals with one or two pet birds. The BVA and BSAVA have joined forces with the British Veterinary Poultry Association (BVPA) to provide advice on biosecurity to minimise the threat.

BVA president John Blackwell said: "BVA, BSAVA and BPHA want to work together to ensure these messages about biosecurity reach backyard and hobby keepers as well.

"We would encourage poultry keepers to work with their local vets and take their advice on appropriate biosecurity measures if in any doubt."

Backyard keepers and smallholders are advised to take the following steps:

• Protect your domestic birds from contact with wild birds by housing them indoors such as a shed or outhouse if possible
  
• Keep your birds away from standing water and make sure their food and water source are protected from contamination by wild birds
  
• Cleanse and disinfect all accommodation to prevent any disease build-up, including regular changes of bedding
  
• Wear protective clothing, such as overalls, and washable boots and consider disinfectant footdips
  
• Quarantine any new additions to your flock for one or two weeks to identify the presence of any new diseases
  
• Regularly check your birds for any sign of ill health and immediately report any concerns to your vet