First Bird Flu Outbreak Hits English Farm, 32,000 Hens Lost
England's first bird flu outbreak of the season has led to the loss of 32,000 egg-laying hens at a free-range farm, with estimated costs exceeding £100,000.
A free-range poultry farm in Northumberland, England, has experienced the first bird flu outbreak of the season, resulting in the loss of 32,000 egg-laying hens. Farmer Catherine Armstrong estimates the incident will cost her business over £100,000. Armstrong described the "shock" of finding "a carpet of dead birds" in her barns, realizing her worst fears had come true.
Highlights
- The first bird flu case of the season in England was confirmed at a free-range chicken farm.
- 32,000 egg-laying hens were lost, with the farm facing an estimated cost of over £100,000.
- The outbreak's source is believed to be wild birds, though the exact origin is still unknown.
- The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has implemented control measures and warned of a likely rise in cases.
- The risk to public health and food safety in the UK remains very low.
Details
Catherine Armstrong's farm typically produced 28,500 eggs daily, supplied to various UK supermarkets. Deaths began a week prior to the official confirmation, rapidly escalating to over 1,000 birds by Sunday night. After contacting the APHA, tests confirmed the virus, and all remaining birds were culled to prevent further spread.
Armstrong described the experience as an "emotional roller coaster." Gary Ford of the British Free Range Egg Producers' Association (Bfrepa) noted that despite high biosecurity standards, free-range hens' regular contact with wild birds can still lead to infection. The association is urging the government to implement regional housing orders to protect farms near coastal areas and migratory bird flight paths.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) stated that results from a recent bird flu vaccine trial in turkeys would not be available until year-end, making vaccination not an option for this bird flu season. The APHA anticipates an increase in infection cases with colder temperatures and the arrival of migratory birds.
Why it matters
This outbreak is significant as the first major bird flu case in England this season, posing substantial economic risks to the livestock sector. The potential for widespread transmission could impact the food supply chain and highlights the critical need for enhanced biosecurity measures by farmers. It also increases pressure on the government regarding vaccine development and the implementation of regional protection strategies.