An outbreak of Avian ‘flu has been confirmed
at Abbotsbury, in West Dorset.
Four dead swans have now been confirmed as
having the H5N1 strain of the virus, but three other swans tested
negative for the H5N1 strain.
The lead authority, the Department for Food
and Fisheries (DEFRA), has declared an “inner ring” Wild Bird
Control Area and an “outer ring” Wild Bird Monitoring Area around
the site.
The risk for Purbeck remains low, however some
of the most westerly areas of Purbeck are just within the outer
Wild Bird Monitoring Area, so poultry keepers in the area are
reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease
immediately.
The DEFRA helpline for reporting any finds of
dead wild birds is 08459 335577 and more information is available
on its website:- (external link) - http://www.defra.gov.uk/
The latest information is also available on
:-(external link) - http://www.dorsetforyou.com/
Further
information about bird flu
from Environmental Services