Physical Wellness

Bird Flu Case Confirmed in UK; FDA Warns Public About Food Poisoning

By Arah TJ | Update Date: Jan 10, 2017 08:13 AM EST

Recent reports have identified a case of Bird flu that has been discovered in North Yorkshire in a small flock found in a backyard. The UK's veterinary officer warns those who have chickens and ducks in their garden should remain alert. 

A 3-kilometer protection zone and a 10-kilometer surveillance zone has been placed around the infected area to minimize the risk of a disease outbreak. In a statement by the Department of Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, what remains of the infected flock of ducks and chickens have been humanely culled.

At Lincolnshire and at a location in Carmarthenshire, Wales, the same H5N8 strain of the avian flu has also been discovered and confirmed at a poultry farm. There have also been similar cases found in wild birds in Wales, England and Scotland.

Although avian flu has been discovered, Public Health England deems that the situation poses very little threat to public health at the moment. Also, the Food Standards Agency has made it clear in a statement that the avian flu is not a food safety risk for UK consumers.

Neil Gibbens, the chief veterinary officer stated that everyone has to take swift action to minimize the risk of an avian virus outbreak. According to The Guardian, restrictions have been placed all-around the affected surroundings and a complete investigation is underway in order to find out the source and cause of the infection.

Gibbens added that the finding in a backyard flock of ducks and chickens displays how important it is for poultry owners, or even those that keep a few birds as pets to do all that they can to keep their birds separated from wild birds, in order to lessen the risk of getting infected. 

FDA also warns the public about the batch of pork sausages and stuffing balls from Asda and Marks and Spencer as it causes food poisoning, Rugby Advertiser reports. The aformentioned products have been found on sale at Nicholls Meats shop in Norfolk. All of them were recalled immediately.

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