Multiple cases of bird flu have been confirmed in North Yorkshire.
A control zone has been put in place around each of the infected premises with disease monitoring activities taking place to prevent further spread.
From Thursday, 6 November, a mandatory housing order will cover the whole of England.
This means bird keepers must house all poultry and captive birds if they keep more than 50 or if they sell or give eggs away.
The risk to public health from the virus is very low.
More information can be found at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/birdflu
Signs of avian influenza
If your birds become ill, consult your vet immediately. Avian influenza spreads through direct contact or contaminated fluids and faeces. Symptoms include:
- swollen head and blue discolouration of the neck and throat
- loss of appetite and diarrhoea
- respiratory distress (gaping beak, coughing, sneezing, gurgling, rattling)
- reduced egg production and increased mortality
By law, if you or your vet suspects that kept birds are showing any signs of disease it must be immediately reported to APHA by calling 03000 200 301.
