Avian Influenza

Description: In today's Farming in Five, chief reporter Rachael Brown takes a look at the latest avian flu case found in commercial poultry at a farm near Wem in Shropshire, the latest on the independent review into UK farm assurance schemes and Morrisons' successful application for an injunction to stop farmers from 'unlawfully protesting' outside its stores and distribution centres after recent protest activity resulted in losses in the region of £200,000

Bird keepers in Wales are urged to 'remain vigilant' and report any signs or suspicion of avian influenza immediately

It is now a legal requirement for all birdkeepers within the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) to follow ‘strict biosecurity measures' to help protect their flocks, of whatever type or size

The World Organisation for Animal Health has ruled that the UK is no longer free from highly pathogenic avian influenza

Farmers have been warned to ensure their human biosecurity is effective

Protection and surveillance zones put in place following confirmation of avian influenza at commercial property

The project, led by APHA, will collect and analyse samples from a range of bird and mammal populations to better understand how the virus behaves

Amends to existing legislation means free-range eggs can continue to be labelled as such during mandatory housing measures, a move Defra said would cut ‘unnecessary red tape and costs for British producers'

“These registration changes are a necessary step to help protect the health of kept birds and the general public from future avian disease risks"

The British Egg Industry Council said it was 'absolutely essential' that the next UK Government puts the conditions in place to ensure egg producers can operate sustainably for years to come