Authorities have implemented a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone around the premises, and all poultry at the site will be humanely culled to prevent further spread of the virus.
The return of bird flu has already resulted in the culling of thousands of farmed birds, including Christmas turkeys, delivering a “heartbreaking” blow to the poultry industry.
A mandatory national housing order has also been enforced to control the outbreak. Under the order, all keepers with more than 50 captive birds of any species, or any number of poultry kept to give away or sell eggs or poultry products, must house their birds indoors.
Poultry keepers are also required to follow strict biosecurity measures. These include cleaning and disinfecting clothing, equipment, and vehicles, and reducing the movement of people, vehicles, and equipment to minimise contamination.
The outbreak has also affected farms in Suffolk, including areas near Lakenheath, Brandon, Honington, and Woodbridge.
Defra has reassured the public that the current risk to human health remains low. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, remain safe to eat.
