James Mottershead of the National Farmers Union urges vigilance after East Anglian bird flu cases

Farmers have been urged to be vigilant after today’s confirmation of bird flu cases at an East Anglian farm.

SuffolkNews reported this morning that the Environment Agency and Animal and Plant Health Agency had revealed that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was found at a poultry farm near Watton, in Mid Norfolk.

In response, the National Farmers Union said those with birds must stay alert, while also calling on DEFRA to ‘refocus efforts’ on a vaccination plan.

All the birds at the infected site will be ‘humanely culled’ while a three kilometre protection zone and a 10 kilometre surveillance zone have been established.

James Mottershead, NFU poultry board chair, said: “A new case of Avian Influenza (AI) has been confirmed in Mid Norfolk, which is the third case this season in England.

“I would therefore urge all poultry keepers, including members of the public with pet birds, to be vigilant and continue practicing enhanced biosecurity.

“Any signs of disease should be reported at the earliest opportunity to protect the national flock.

“For the long-term stability of the UK poultry sector, it is essential that Defra refocuses efforts on an AI vaccination plan for birds as a priority."

Shown on the APHA Interactive Avian Influenza Disease Map, the protection zone encompasses villages including Woodrising, Cranworth, Southburgh and High Common.

Meanwhile, the larger surveillance zone covers Watton, Dereham, Hingham and stretches to the A11 at Attleborough.

There is no indication the presence of bird flu at the farm will cause a wider outbreak.