An outbreak of bird flu has been found at a premises in Salwick near Preston.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency tweeted the news late yesterday (Friday 12 November).

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The tweet said: “Avian influenza H5N1 (pathogenicity to be confirmed) has been found in birds at a premises near Salwick, Fylde, Lancashire.”

Further testing is now underway to confirm the pathogenicity of the strain, and 3km and 10km Temporary Control Zones have been put in place surrounding the premises.

While Avian influenza (bird flu) mainly affects birds, it can also affect humans and other mammals.

Guidance on gov.uk states all bird keepers – whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock – must keep a close watch on them for signs of disease and maintain good biosecurity at all times.

Poultry should be registered, even if only kept as pets, so owners can be contacted during an outbreak. This is a legal requirement if you have 50 or more birds. Poultry includes chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, pigeon (bred for meat), partridge, quail, guinea fowl and pheasants.

For more information, see the Avian influenza information page on gov.uk.

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