Update on Avian flu outbreak in Cheshire East

Cheshire East Council has been notified that avian influenza surveillance and protection zones imposed around two commercial poultry premises in the borough have now ended.

It follows successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance within the 3km protection zones and 10km surveillance zones on premises in the Crewe and Calveley areas.

All local restrictions around these premises have been lifted but the national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains in force, including the requirement to house all birds indoors.

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency has said that bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers and it does not affect the consumption of poultry or eggs.

Bird keepers should remain alert for any signs of disease, report suspected disease immediately and ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises.

Residents are reminded to not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that they find. If they find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, they should report them to the Defra helpline (03459 335577).