A FRESH warning is being given to south Cumbrian poultry owners after a bird flu outbreak was confirmed at a turkey-fattening site in neighbouring North Yorkshire.

The H5N8 bird flu strain was confirmed at the farm near Northallerton last weekend, which has led to all 10,500 birds being culled and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone put in place to prevent the disease from spreading.

An avian influenza prevention zone is in place in England, Scotland and Wales which requires all bird keepers to take biosecurity precautions.

National Farmers Union (NFU) chief poultry adviser Aimee Mahony said:“The NFU remains in close dialogue with both Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency on this issue and we are working to support any members affected by these cases of avian influenza.

“In light of the new Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced by Defra, I would urge all poultry keepers, including members of the public with pet birds, a backyard flock or smallholding, to continue practising enhanced biosecurity at all times.

“ It’s crucial everyone remains vigilant and reports any signs of disease in their birds at the earliest opportunity.

“The risk to public health from this virus is very low and the Food Standards Agency has also made it clear that it does not pose a food safety risk.”

Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “Following a number of confirmed cases in the UK, there is currently an avian influenza prevention zone in place across the country to ensure that we can eradicate the disease as quickly as possible.

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