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Avian influenza - Final epidemiology report published

   

INFORMATION BULLETIN

Ref: 222/08
Date: 11 July 2008

Defra has today published a final epidemiology report into the Avian Influenza outbreak confirmed in Oxfordshire on 4 June.

The report concludes that at the time of writing (2 July) infection was confined to a single premise, and there is no evidence of infection on any contact or geographically close premises, or evidence of spread of infection to any other premises to date

While it has not been possible to conclusively identify the source of the infection, the two most likely sources of the outbreak are thought to be:

  • Unidentified Avian Influenza in domestic premises in Great Britain, associated either by proximity or potential contact, or
  • Avian Influenza in wildlife in contact with the IP

Investigations are now complete.

Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, Alick Simmons, said

''This incident has demonstrated again the potential for avian influenza to be introduced into domestic poultry in the UK. The risk of further incidents, while low, remains.  I urge poultry keepers to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity and to report suspicion of disease promptly including where records indicate increased mortality or reduced performance.''

Notes to Editors

1. The report can be viewed at www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/ai/latest-situation/index.htm

2. Advice and information on H7N7 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. The Surveillance Zone and remaining disease control restrictions  put in place following the outbreak of H7N7 avian Influenza in Oxfordshire were lifted on 8 July. The Protection Zone was lifted on 29 June. Some restrictions on trade with other countries remain.

4. 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.

End

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Page published: 11 July 2008