Bird Flu Hits Lancashire Farm: H5N8 Confirmed in Backyard Chickens
Outbreak in Thornton, Wyre Sparks Urgent Action
The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer has confirmed a case of H5N8 avian flu at a small backyard flock near Thornton, Wyre, Lancashire. Around 30 chickens are affected, with several dead and the rest being humanely culled to stop the virus spreading.
Strict Zones Established to Contain Virus
Authorities have imposed a 3 km Protection Zone and a 10 km Surveillance Zone around the infected farm. These measures aim to prevent the deadly bird flu from spreading to other poultry in the area.
Investigation and Safety Reassurances
A full probe is underway to uncover how the infection started. Meanwhile, Public Health England assures the public: the risk to human health is very low. The Food Standards Agency also confirms bird flu poses no food safety threat to UK consumers.
