East Anglia AI is low pathogenicity

- Published: 06 March, 2009

Defra has confirmed that the H6N1 avian influenza virus found at two poultry premises in East Anglia is of low pathogenicity.

Bernard Matthews Farms raised the alarm on Tuesday, 24 February, following an unusual drop in egg production levels on two of its small breeder farms. Animal Health quickly identified the virus as the lower risk H6N1 strain and further testing has now ruled out the presence of a statutory notifiable disease.

The restrictions put in place on the farms during the investigation have now been lifted. Defra reminded poultry keepers to remain vigilant and look for any disease in their birds.

"Any concerns should be reported immediately to their local vet or reported to the Animal Health Agency so that statutory notifiable disease can be ruled out promptly," it said.