Bird flu tests continue on farms

More tests are taking place to identify the strain on flu

Investigations continue on two poultry farms in Suffolk and Norfolk where birds have tested positive for a strain of avian flu.

Vets from Defra carried out the tests at Bernard Matthews breeder sites at Arran farm near Yaxham, Norfolk, and Laurel farm, in Ubbeston, Suffolk.

The birds tested positive for avian influenza but not the highly pathogenic H5 or H7 types.

Defra has not advised a cull but has imposed movement restrictions.

A Defra spokesman said: "A routine veterinary investigation is ongoing at poultry premises into the possible presence of a notifiable avian disease. Laboratory tests are ongoing and there is no conclusion yet.

Further tests

"Routine veterinary investigations into notifiable diseases occur on a regular basis.

"It is a legal requirement to notify the Animal Health Agency of the possibility of such diseases whenever these cannot be ruled out by a vet or an animal keeper as part of the diagnosis of illness in animals or birds."

A second series of tests is taking place to identify the strain of influenza.

Bernard Matthews said in a statement: "Whilst the two small breeder farms remain under movement restrictions until Defra has completed its tests, other operations continue to run as normal.

"As a precautionary measure and out of a duty of care for our employees, we have sought guidance from the Health Protection Agency and are providing Tamiflu treatment to our staff, who work on the affected farms.

"Avian Influenza is a disease of birds that continues to pose a threat to poultry flocks both in the UK and around the world.

"Bernard Matthews has in place clear procedures to identify avian influenza and, under the direction of Defra, the ability to control and eradicate the disease, without posing any risk to public health."