Local residents are reminded that they need to keep all poultry inside, until January 6th, 2017, to avoid a large-scale outbreak of a highly contagious strain of Bird Flu.

An outbreak of the H5N8 strain of Avian Flu has already been confirmed at a Turkey Farm in Lincolnshire. All birds at this farm, who have not already died, will be culled to prevent the disease from spreading.

The H5N8 strain of bird flu is a pathogenic strain; it is understood that up to 80% of the Turkeys at the Lincolnshire farm died as a result of it.

Public Health England has insisted that the risk to the public is very low, and that cooked poultry meat poses no threat to health.

Owners of poultry in Herefordshire are reminded that they must keep all of their birds inside, whether they own a large scale poultry farm or just a couple as pets in the back garden.

Herefordshire County Councillor, David Harlow, Birch Ward representative and cabinet member for economy and corporate services, said: “Herefordshire Council would like poultry and captive bird keepers in the county to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns.

“They can help to prevent avian flu by keeping their birds indoors and maintaining good biosecurity on their premises, such as disinfecting clothing, footwear and equipment after contact.”