Second avian flu outbreak in Suffolk
England, Wales and Scotland recently announced new avian influenza prevention zones. (stock photo)
Avian influenza H5N8 has been identified at a second premises near Redgrave in Suffolk, during routine investigations following the recent outbreak nearby.
The UK’s deputy chief veterinary officer confirmed on Friday (3 March) that proactive culling of 55,000 birds would take place to contain the possible spread of avian flu. Cleansing and disinfection would also take place to further reduce the risk to other birds.
A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone are in place following the previous case in the same area. The earlier case was confirmed at a separate premises in the area on 13 February.
Other outbreaks of H5N8 have previously been confirmed on farms and in backyard flocks in Northumberland, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and Carmarthenshire. There have also been a number of wild bird cases across the UK.
England, Wales and Scotland recently announced new avian influenza prevention zones, which will run from 28 February until at least the end of April.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
