South East England Development Agency (SEEDA)

Bird Flu

6 June 2008

The H7 strain of Avian Influenza has been confirmed in laying hens at a farm in Banbury, Oxfordshire. Laboratory tests have confirmed that the strain is highly pathogenic. All birds on the premises will be slaughtered.

A Temporary Control zone with a 3km inner zone and 10km outer zone has been established around the infected premises and all poultry farmers are urged to be extremely vigilant, practice the highest levels of bio security and report any suspicions of disease to their local Animal Health Office immediately.
Defra has provided the following advice

Visiting the Countryside
There is no need for people to stop visiting this part of the countryside. Footpaths in the area remain open. Any closures would be based on veterinary advice and local conditions, for example, any paths or bridleways that cross or border the infected premises. We would also advise the public at all times to avoid contact with bird faeces and ill or dead birds and, in case of any contact, to take simple hygienic measures i.e. wash any contaminated skin, clothing or footwear with soap and water.

Gathering of poultry (i.e. fairs, markets, shows or exhibitions)
Poultry gatherings are banned in the control and monitoring areas. There are no restrictions outside of these zones.

Shooting and Hunting
Game birds cannot be released. Currently, there is no specific Avian Influenza ban on shooting or hunting. If a decision is made to ban shooting in these zones, it will be based on veterinary and ornithological advice. And we will contact you again.

Please use the official Defra website to get the more detailed information www.defra.gov.uk