Suspected case of bird flu discovered at Fife farm

A suspected case of bird flu has been discovered in a farm in Fife, according to the Scottish Government.

Cabinet secretary for rural affairs Richard Lochhead said the Government was doing everything it could to control and prevent the spread of the disease, which was reported at a Dunfermline farm.

Scotland’s chief veterinary officer said tests suggest the strain is a low severity form of avian influenza while urging poultry keepers in the surrounding area to remain vigilant.

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The Government has introduced a one kilometre Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) around the farm, limiting movement of poultry, carcasses, eggs, used poultry litter and manure, as a safety measure.

Lochhead said: “Livestock owners and the general public should be assured that we are doing everything we can to control and prevent the spread of the disease. Any poultry producers who are concerned should immediately seek veterinary advice.”

Dr Jim McMenamin, consultant epidemiologist and respiratory infection lead for Health Protection Scotland said: “Based on what we know about this strain of avian influenza and the actions that have been taken, the risk to human health in this case is considered very low. Health Protection Scotland continues to work closely with Animal Health throughout this investigation”.

The birds at the farm will be culled.