Following a confirmed case of avian influenza (bird flu), in the Newcastle area, an appeal is being made to the public to strictly follow the government regulations that have been introduced to contain the spread of the outbreak. 
 

It is a legal requirement for all bird keepers across the UK to house or net all poultry and captive birds to keep them separate from wild birds.  This applies whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock.  
 

This is in addition to existing requirements for strict biosecurity measures to be put in place to help limit the spread of the disease and keep flocks safe. This includes regularly cleaning and disinfecting equipment, clothing and vehicles when entering or exiting sites and limiting access to non-essential workers or visitors. 
 

If a member of the public comes across a dead wild bird, they are asked to report it to DEFRA on 03459 335577 (select option 7) and not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds. Providing good location information for a dead or diseased bird is particularly important and location apps such as 'what3words', references can be very helpful.  
 

The recent outbreak of the highly contagious virus was found at Ouseburn Farm near Byker.  Birds at the site will be humanely culled and a 1.9-mile (3km) protection zone and a 6.2-mile (10km) surveillance zone have been established around the premises. The community farm has been closed until further notice. 

 
Philip Soderquest Head of housing and public protection at Northumberland County Council said:  
 
“This recent outbreak is just a few miles from Northumberland and so it is really important, now more than ever, that all bird keepers follow the legal requirements around housing and biosecurity measures to help reduce the spread of the disease.” 

Wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe during the winter months can carry the disease and where wild birds are allowed to mix with domestic poultry this can lead to the disease spreading to captive birds.  
 

UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency has said that bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers and it does not affect the consumption of poultry or eggs.  
  

Bird keepers are also advised to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, report suspected disease immediately and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns.