H5 avian influenza has been confirmed in turkeys on premises near Diss on the Norfolk/ Suffolk border. The precise identity of the virus is yet to be confirmed. The premises also house ducks and geese. Contingency plans have been activated, and Defra has confirmed that all birds on the premises will be slaughtered.
A 3 km Protection Zone and a 10 km Surveillance Zone are being established around the premises. Inside these zones, poultry movements will be restricted and all birds must be housed or otherwise isolated from contact with wild birds.
The RSPB continues to play an active part in Defra’s targeted surveillance programme for avian influenza, with nature reserves across England, Scotland and Wales contributing regular information.
There have been no cases of avian influenza in wild birds on the near continent since the middle of August.