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Bird flu: another swan tests positive for HN51

Following last Thursday's announcement of bird flu in three swans in Dorset, Defra has today confirmed that another mute swan has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.

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According to DEFRA: “There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population, but enhanced surveillance is taking place and poultry keepers in the area are reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately. There is no evidence of disease in domestic birds.”

John Houston, general manager at Abbotsbury Tourism Ltd, said: “That puts us back to square one in terms of waiting for a 21-day clearance before we are out of the woods.”

“It’s disappointing but not totally unexpected this early in the outbreak. It would be wonderful if it disappeared immediately but that’s unrealistic.”

“It’s going to take a while for it to be contained and weeded out.”