LPAI on Bernard Matthews poultry farm

Movement restrictions have been imposed in and out of a Bernard Matthews poultry farm in Suffolk, England, following the identification of a strain of bird flu.

The strain, following initial tests, is not thought to be that of the most virulent H5 or H7 forms but government officials have ordered restrictions on the premises in Suffolk to be put in place as a precaution.

In a statement, the company confirmed that some of the birds at one of the business’ farms showed signs of ill health over the weekend and the company felt it was appropriate to report this to the government body, DEFRA.

Tests are ongoing to confirm the specific strain and it is reported that the birds affected by the outbreak are being treated with antibiotics. It is not thought that they need to be culled nor removed from the food supply chain.