Chief vet confirms bird flu outbreak with 10km surveillance zone in force

Scotland’s chief vet has confirmed a bird flu outbreak has been reported near Inverness.

Chief Veterinary Officer for Scotland Sheila Voas said that highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected on the premises, or was detected in the previous 56 days.

Scottish Ministers have been informed of her conclusion and a 3km protection zone set up near Daviot and Scatraig.

A 10km surveillance zone has also been set up, stretching as far north as Inverness and as south as Brinmore.

The infected premises is Tigh na Drochaid, in Daviot, the report said.

The restrictions put in place stop the movement of poultry, carcases, eggs, used poultry litter and manure to prevent any further spread of disease.

The occupier must also ensure that all carcases not seized or disposed of by a veterinary inspector are disposed of in accordance with a veterinary inspector’s instructions.

No poultry or other captive birds are allowed to be collected together at any fair, market, show, exhibition or other gathering within the protection zone.

Occupiers must also maintain a record of the number of poultry on the premises, the number which fall ill, and the number, if any, which die.

In the surveillance zone, “appropriate biosecurity measures” must be taken by occupiers to reduce the risk of the spread of avian influenza to or from the premises.

Vehicles used to transport poultry, other captive birds, carcasses, feed, manure, slurry, litter, or any other potentially contaminated material must be cleansed and disinfected.

Avian flu is not considered dangerous to humans, but people are advised not to touch dead or dying birds.