New bird flu case found in Market Bosworth

This is the fifth case in Leicestershire.

Birdkeepers in the Market Bosworth area are being urged to follow a range of restrictions after a case of bird flu was confirmed.

Trading Standards officers from Leicestershire County Council will be knocking on doors and sending letters to properties within a 3km zone.

Councillor Deborah Taylor, said: “It’s important we all do what we can to reduce the spread of the disease and we are continuing to work closely with the Government. I’d urge all bird keepers to follow the legal requirements, including registering flocks where required, and although the risk to residents is very low, I’d remind people not to touch or pick up any dead or sick birds.” 

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has put 3km and 10km zones in place around the area. In these zones, bird keepers have to follow increased measures to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

There will also be information signs on the streets to let drivers know they are entering an area with restrictions.

 UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss, said: “We have taken swift action to limit the spread of the disease but we are continuing to see a growing number of bird flu cases on farms and in backyard flocks across the country. Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands you must take action now to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.

“It is now a legal requirement to keep your birds indoors to keep them separate from wild birds which spread the disease. It is also vital that you maintain strong biosecurity by regularly checking and maintaining sheds and cleaning and disinfecting footwear to limit the risk of the disease spreading. Don’t walk the virus into your hens.”