Avian influenza H5 confirmed in Suffolk

Defra has today confirmed Avian Influenza in turkeys on a premises near Diss on the Norfolk/Suffolk border after preliminary tests were positive for the H5 strain. The premises also contain ducks and geese. All birds on the premises will be slaughtered.

Full confirmation of results, including whether or not this is H5N1 and whether the strain is high or low pathogenic will follow.

A 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone are being established around the Infected Premises. Inside these zones bird movements will be restricted and all birds must be housed or otherwise isolated from contact with wild birds. We are also urgently considering with ornithological and other experts what wider measures may be needed.

All poultry keepers on the GB Poultry Register will be notified, and the EU Commission has been informed.