Avian Influenza H5N1 confirmed in Dorset
Update: 20 January
Defra has today confirmed that a fifth mute swan collected on 14 January as part of wild bird surveillance from the same area has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza. This is not unexpected, and Defra’s enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing, including active patrols to look for dead wild birds. 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 is no evidence of disease in domestic birds.
Following a risk assessment, a general licence is now available to permit the shooting of wild game birds and pest wild bird species within the Wild Bird Monitoring Area, but the ban remains in the Control Area. In addition, the licence permits catching wild game birds in the Monitoring Area, and trapping pest wild bird species within both the Monitoring and Control Areas.
Update: 16 January
Defra has today confirmed that another mute swan collected on 11 January as part of wild bird surveillance from the same area has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.
Confirmation: 10 January
Defra has today confirmed Avian Influenza in three dead wild mute swans in the Chesil Beach area in Dorset, following positive test results from the Veterinary Laboratories Agency for the highly pathogenic strain of H5N1. These birds were found and tested following our routine surveillance programme.
A Wild Bird Control Area and Monitoring Area are being established around the premises, encompassing Chesil Beach and Portland Bill, and the shape of these is based on expert ornithological advice.
Inside these areas bird keepers are required to house their birds or otherwise isolate them from contact with wild birds, bird movements will be restricted, and bird gatherings are banned. Defra is also working closely with ornithological and other experts to consider what wider measures may be needed. Further details can be found on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu
No disease has been found in domestic birds, and a programme of surveillance is being carried out in the local wild bird population. There will be no culling of wild birds because such action may disperse birds further and would not aid control.
Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, Fred Landeg said:
“While this is obviously unwelcome news, we have always said that Britain is at a constant low level of risk of introduction of Avian Influenza. Our message to all bird keepers, particularly those in the area, is that they must be vigilant, report any signs of disease immediately, and practice the highest levels of biosecurity.”
A full epidemiological investigation is underway.
All poultry keepers on the GB Poultry Register are being notified, and the EU Commission has been informed.
Further information
- Information is available from the Defra Helpline (08459 33 55 77) - see for current opening hours. Bird keepers can also call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest updates on 0844 884 4600.
- Further details can be found on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu
- News release - 10 January 2008
- Hilary Benn's written ministerial statement - 15 January
Page last modified: 20 January 2008
Page published: 10 January 2008