Poultry keepers must 'remain vigilant' over bird flu

Poultry keepers have been urged to take steps to keep chickens away from wild birds

Poultry keepers on the Isle of Man have been urged to avoid handling sick or dead birds following confirmed outbreaks of avian flu in England.

The latest confirmation of cases of the virus in Kent and Somerset follows outbreaks in Cumbria and Cheshire last week.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (Defa) said those who keep poultry and other avian species should "remain vigilant", as the virus is generally passed on through contact with infected birds.

Chief veterinary officer Amy Beckett urged keepers to "take action to protect their birds due to the increased risk".

Ms Beckett said: "The virus, which affects poultry and wild birds, usually flares up in autumn and fades in warmer months.

"As it's primarily a disease of birds, the risk to human health is very low."

'Risk same as UK'

The outbreaks in the north-west of England were on commercial poultry farms and saw the birds culled and protection zones put in place.

Defa said the risk level on the island was "considered the same as in the UK".

The last cases of the virus on the island were confirmed in sea birds in Peel Beach and Port Erin Beach in July 2023, and in a kestrel at the Point of Ayre the following month.

In its advice, the department also advised keepers to regularly disinfect boots and equipment.

They should also house their flocks were possible to minimise any contact with wild birds, which should also be kept away from all feed, water, and bedding.

Suspected cases of avian flu should be reported to Defa's Animal Health Team.