First case of bird flu in sheep found on UK farm

The nation’s chief veterinary officer has confirmed that the first UK case of bird flu in sheep has been found.

The Yorkshire farm where the case was found was a smallholding where sheep and poultry, that also tested positive for bird flu, were being kept together.

A government spokesperson said the single infected ewe, who had been showing signs of mastitis, had been “humanely culled” and no further cases among the flock were found following “extensive testing”.

England remains an Avian Influenza Protection Zone with DEFRA mandated biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Tom Bradshaw said: “This remains a single case within what is understood to be a backyard flock, and no other infection has been found amongst the remaining sheep.

“Commercial producers continue to do all they can to protect their animals by following strict biosecurity measures. While the risk to the nation’s livestock population remains low, it’s vital that all keepers of domesticated poultry, cattle, sheep and goats maintain high standards of biosecurity and remain vigilant for any