Avian influenza has been identified in Stirling, after a small and contained outbreak in a backyard flock. The cases were identified at a property near Drip Bridge in Stirling and a 3 kilometre Protection Zone 10 kilometre Surveillance Zone have been set up around the property. This means movement restrictions within these zones – for example, poultry, carcasses, eggs, used poultry litter and manure – to prevent any further spread of disease. The full list of measures that must be taken in each zone is available on the Scottish Government website at https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-near-stirling/.
Commenting, Evelyn Tweed MSP said;
‘I commend the fast action of the keeper of these birds in notifying the relevant agencies. I would remind other keepers in the constituency that measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza are mandatory.
‘I encourage all constituents who keep birds to check whether their premises falls within the protection zone or the surveillance zone around this case. Early Detection and swift action are key to disease control and minimising the impacts on both keepers and rural communities.
It is critical that any suspicion of a notifiable disease, such as avian influenza H5N1, should be reported immediately to the local APHA office in Perth on 03000 6007.
