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Second avian flu case in Lancashire
The prevention zone requires poultry keepers to follow certain measures to reduce the risk of infection from wild birds.
H5N8 detected in backyard flock of nine birds
 
Avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a second backyard flock near Thornton, Lancashire, just a few days after an outbreak in a flock of 30 chickens.

The second outbreak was detected in a flock of nine chickens and ducks on 6 May. A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been put in place around the affected premises to limit the risk of disease spreading.

Some of the birds in the flock had died and the remainder were humanely culled. A full investigation is underway to identify the source of the infection.

Defra confirmed another case of H5N8 in a backyard flock of 30 chickens, also in Thornton, on 4 May.

At the end of last month Defra announced the avian flu prevention zone and ban on poultry gatherings would be relaxed from 15 May if there were no more H5N8 findings.

The prevention zone requires poultry keepers to follow certain measures to reduce the risk of infection from wild birds. It was introduced following outbreaks of H5N8 in poultry and wild birds in several countries across Europe. Since December 2016 there have also been a number of outbreaks across the UK.

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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. 

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News Shorts
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.