Avian Influenza confirmed in wild duck in Carmarthenshire

Defra have confirmed that a wild wigeon found dead in Carmarthenshire in Wales has tested positive for Avian Influenza H5N8, the same strain of the disease confirmed at a turkey farm in Lincolnshire last week. This is the first time a wild bird has tested positive for avian influenza in the UK this winter.

This follows the introduction of a Prevention Zone across Great Britain earlier this month requiring all keepers of poultry and other captive birds to keep their birds indoors, or if impracticable, to take appropriate steps to minimise contact with wild birds.

Members of the public are encouraged to report dead wild swans, geese, ducks or gulls, or five or more dead wild birds of other species in the same location, to the Defra helpline on 03459 335577.

We will continue to update this blog with new information when available.