DEPARTMENT FOR
ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS News Release (24/08) issued by
The Government News Network on 30 January 2008
Defra has today
published an epidemiology report into the H5N1 avian influenza
case in wild birds in Dorset.
While it has not been possible to conclusively identify the
source of the infection, the most likely hypothesis is that it was
introduced by an infected migratory wild bird.
It has also been established that the strain of the virus is
similar to those isolated in continental Europe in the latter part
of 2007.
The report outlines the detailed surveillance that has been
carried out in the area, both in domestic and wild bird
populations. There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread
disease in the wild bird population, but poultry keepers in the
area are reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of
disease immediately. There remains no evidence of disease in
domestic birds.
At the time of writing disease was confined to the six birds on
the same premises. This represents a very low level of infection
in the wild bird population on the site.
Further epidemiology reports will be published in due course.
Notes to editors
1. The report will be available at http://www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu
2. Advice and information on H5N1 avian influence is available
via the Defra Helpline on 08459 33 55 77. Poultry keepers can also
call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest
updates, on 0844 884 4600.
3. Avian Influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass
very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this usually requires
extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces.
As a precautionary measure those who might have been exposed would
be offered the appropriate treatment and protection in line with
established protocols. Advice from the Food Standards Agency
remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products,
including eggs, are safe to eat.
Public enquiries 08459 335577;
Press notices are available on
our website
http://www.defra.gov.uk
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