Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England - UK GovtLast update: 1/30/2008 12:11:14 PMLONDON (Dow Jones)--A seventh swan has tested positive to H5N1 bird flu, said the U.K.'s Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Wednesday. The swan was collected on Jan. 24 in the southwest English county of Dorset as part of a surveillance program in the area. The department said it was most likely the swan was infected by a migratory wild bird. -By Sarah McFarlane, Dow Jones Newswires; +44 (0)20 7842 9327; sarah.mcfarlane@dowjones.com (END) Dow Jones NewswiresJanuary 30, 2008 12:11 ET (17:11 GMT)
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Bird Flu Infects 9th Swan In SW England
- Thread starter yielddude
- Start date
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
<!-- #BeginEditable "Pre-title" --><!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Title" -->Avian Influenza Update: Seventh Swan Positive for H5N1<!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Body" -->Defra has today confirmed that a seventh mute swan collected on 24 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza. This is not unexpected, and our enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing including active patrols to look for dead wild birds.
There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population, but poultry keepers in the area are reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately. There remains no evidence of disease in domestic birds.
<!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Editors" -->Further information <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Notes" -->
http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2008/080130c.htm<!-- InstanceEndEditable --><!--End Date-->
<!--Footer-->
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
<!-- #BeginEditable "Pre-title" --><!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Title" -->Avian Influenza Update: Seventh Swan Positive for H5N1<!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Body" -->Defra has today confirmed that a seventh mute swan collected on 24 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza. This is not unexpected, and our enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing including active patrols to look for dead wild birds.
There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population, but poultry keepers in the area are reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately. There remains no evidence of disease in domestic birds.
<!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Editors" -->Further information <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Notes" -->
- Information is available from the Defra Helpline (08459 33 55 77) - see www.defra.gov.uk for current opening hours. Bird keepers can also call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest updates on 0844 884 4600.
- Avian Influenza is a disease of birds. While it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this usually requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
- All Avian Influenza (H1 to H16) can be low pathogenic but only H5 and H7 are known to become highly pathogenic.
- All poultry keepers registered with the GB Poultry Register will be contacted by text message with updates. All poultry keepers responsible for a premises with 50 or more birds are legally required to register. Defra strongly encourages those with less than 50 birds to register voluntarily.
- The details on the measures that apply in the current zones can be found on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu/
End
Public enquiries: 08459 335577
News releases available on our website:
www.defra.gov.uk
Defra's aim is sustainable development
<!--End of Central Content editable text area --><!--Date Modified and Published--><!-- InstanceBeginEditable name="PubDate" -->Page published: 30 January 2008 at 13:55 Public enquiries: 08459 335577
News releases available on our website:
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Defra's aim is sustainable development
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Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
<!-- #BeginEditable "Pre-title" --><!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Title" -->Dorset Avian influenza epidemiology report published <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Body" -->Defra has today published an epidemiology report into the H5N1 avian influenza case in wild birds in Dorset.
While it has not been possible to conclusively identify the source of the infection, the most likely hypothesis is that it was introduced by an infected migratory wild bird.
It has also been established that the strain of the virus is similar to those isolated in continental Europe in the latter part of 2007.
The report outlines the detailed surveillance that has been carried out in the area, both in domestic and wild bird populations. There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population, but poultry keepers in the area are reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately. There remains no evidence of disease in domestic birds.
At the time of writing disease was confined to the six birds on the same premises. This represents a very low level of infection in the wild bird population on the site.
Further epidemiology reports will be published in due course.
<!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Editors" -->Notes to editors<!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Notes" -->1. The report will be available at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu
2. Advice and information on H5N1 avian influence is available via the Defra Helpline on 08459 33 55 77. Poultry keepers can also call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest updates, on 0844 884 4600.
3. Avian Influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this usually requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. As a precautionary measure those who might have been exposed would be offered the appropriate treatment and protection in line with established protocols. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
<!-- #EndEditable -->
http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2008/080130b.htm<!-- InstanceEndEditable --><!--End Date-->
<!--Footer-->
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
<!-- #BeginEditable "Pre-title" --><!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Title" -->Dorset Avian influenza epidemiology report published <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Body" -->Defra has today published an epidemiology report into the H5N1 avian influenza case in wild birds in Dorset.
While it has not been possible to conclusively identify the source of the infection, the most likely hypothesis is that it was introduced by an infected migratory wild bird.
It has also been established that the strain of the virus is similar to those isolated in continental Europe in the latter part of 2007.
The report outlines the detailed surveillance that has been carried out in the area, both in domestic and wild bird populations. There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population, but poultry keepers in the area are reminded to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately. There remains no evidence of disease in domestic birds.
At the time of writing disease was confined to the six birds on the same premises. This represents a very low level of infection in the wild bird population on the site.
Further epidemiology reports will be published in due course.
<!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Editors" -->Notes to editors<!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Notes" -->1. The report will be available at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu
2. Advice and information on H5N1 avian influence is available via the Defra Helpline on 08459 33 55 77. Poultry keepers can also call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest updates, on 0844 884 4600.
3. Avian Influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this usually requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. As a precautionary measure those who might have been exposed would be offered the appropriate treatment and protection in line with established protocols. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
<!-- #EndEditable -->
End
Public enquiries: 08459 335577
News releases available on our website:
www.defra.gov.uk
Defra's aim is sustainable development
<!--End of Central Content editable text area --><!--Date Modified and Published--><!-- InstanceBeginEditable name="PubDate" -->Page published: 30 January 2008 Public enquiries: 08459 335577
News releases available on our website:
www.defra.gov.uk
Defra's aim is sustainable development
http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2008/080130b.htm<!-- InstanceEndEditable --><!--End Date-->
<!--Footer-->
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/pdf/epireport-hpaiswan080129.pdf
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/pdf/epireport-hpaiswan080129.pdf
Executive Summary
1. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was confirmed in Great Britain on
10 January 2008, when tests had shown that virus strain type H5N1 (HPAI
H5N1), was present in the carcases of three wild mute swans (
10 January 2008, when tests had shown that virus strain type H5N1 (HPAI
H5N1), was present in the carcases of three wild mute swans (
Cygnus olor).
These carcases were collected on 7 January 2008 from the Fleet Reserve on
the Dorset coast, and examined as part of Great Britain?s avian influenza wild
bird surveillance programme.
2. HPAI H5N1 was later detected in carcases of three further mute swans
collected from the same area. No infection has been identified in any other
individual or species of wild bird in Great Britain since April 2006, when an
infected whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) was found dead, washed up in
Cellardyke harbour in Scotland.
3. Analysis of the virus indicates that it is related to contemporary viruses from
continental Europe and is most closely related to a cluster of isolates
recovered in mid to late 2007 from wild and domestic birds in the Czech
Republic, Romania and Poland.
4. Expert ornithological advice indicated that swans, or other wild birds,
particularly wildfowl from the same population, would move within the Fleet,
between the two Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserves at
Lodmoor and Radipole and up to 3km inland, and thus potentially place
domestic poultry at risk of infection within this area. This led to the delineation
of the Wild Bird Control Area (WBCA).
5. Wild bird surveillance has been increased in the area and apart from the
swans reported above, no other evidence of avian influenza infection has
been found in the wild bird populations.
6. This is a region of relatively few domestic poultry, and surveillance activities
focussed on the domestic poultry within the WCBA are complete. No evidence
of spread of HPAI H5N1 to the domestic poultry population has been found.
7. The source of infection for the swans has not been identified, however the
most plausible hypothesis is that it was introduced by one of the migratory
wild birds that make up part of the population on the Fleet during the winter.
8. The Health Protection Agency have been informed of the incident and have
provided advice on the potential human health risk, which is not considered
further in this report.
These carcases were collected on 7 January 2008 from the Fleet Reserve on
the Dorset coast, and examined as part of Great Britain?s avian influenza wild
bird surveillance programme.
2. HPAI H5N1 was later detected in carcases of three further mute swans
collected from the same area. No infection has been identified in any other
individual or species of wild bird in Great Britain since April 2006, when an
infected whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) was found dead, washed up in
Cellardyke harbour in Scotland.
3. Analysis of the virus indicates that it is related to contemporary viruses from
continental Europe and is most closely related to a cluster of isolates
recovered in mid to late 2007 from wild and domestic birds in the Czech
Republic, Romania and Poland.
4. Expert ornithological advice indicated that swans, or other wild birds,
particularly wildfowl from the same population, would move within the Fleet,
between the two Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserves at
Lodmoor and Radipole and up to 3km inland, and thus potentially place
domestic poultry at risk of infection within this area. This led to the delineation
of the Wild Bird Control Area (WBCA).
5. Wild bird surveillance has been increased in the area and apart from the
swans reported above, no other evidence of avian influenza infection has
been found in the wild bird populations.
6. This is a region of relatively few domestic poultry, and surveillance activities
focussed on the domestic poultry within the WCBA are complete. No evidence
of spread of HPAI H5N1 to the domestic poultry population has been found.
7. The source of infection for the swans has not been identified, however the
most plausible hypothesis is that it was introduced by one of the migratory
wild birds that make up part of the population on the Fleet during the winter.
8. The Health Protection Agency have been informed of the incident and have
provided advice on the potential human health risk, which is not considered
further in this report.
Clinical History
9. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza strain type H5N1 (HPAI H5N1) was
confirmed to be present in the carcases of three wild mute swans collected on
7 January 2008 and examined as part of Great Britain?s AI wild bird
surveillance programme. The swans were submitted to the programme by the
Abbotsbury Swannery, Dorset. Swannery staff euthanased two of the birds on
27 and 31 December 2007 respectively. One had a leg injury and the other
was emaciated. The third swan was found dead on 4 January 2008. The three
birds were ringed and are therefore known to have hatched locally in 2006
and 2007. HPAI H5N1 has been found in three further swan carcases
submitted on 11, 14 and 21 January respectively. No clinical signs of avianconfirmed to be present in the carcases of three wild mute swans collected on
7 January 2008 and examined as part of Great Britain?s AI wild bird
surveillance programme. The swans were submitted to the programme by the
Abbotsbury Swannery, Dorset. Swannery staff euthanased two of the birds on
27 and 31 December 2007 respectively. One had a leg injury and the other
was emaciated. The third swan was found dead on 4 January 2008. The three
birds were ringed and are therefore known to have hatched locally in 2006
and 2007. HPAI H5N1 has been found in three further swan carcases
influenza (AI) had been observed in five of these birds, however nervous
signs that would be consistent with AI infection were seen in the fifth bird
found positive.
10. A large number of swans habitually come to the Swannery and small numbers
die throughout the year. These deaths were not considered unusual, and
were handled in the normal way, the carcases being submitted at a
convenient time for screening under the wild bird surveillance programme.
signs that would be consistent with AI infection were seen in the fifth bird
found positive.
10. A large number of swans habitually come to the Swannery and small numbers
die throughout the year. These deaths were not considered unusual, and
were handled in the normal way, the carcases being submitted at a
convenient time for screening under the wild bird surveillance programme.
Investigations at the Swannery
11. The Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks who first built a
monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040?s and farmed the swans as a food
source. The Swannery passed into the stewardship of Ilchester Estates (the
current ?owners? of the mute swan flock) in 1539. Today Abbotsbury
Swannery is a reserve for free flying swans and wild birds and forms part of
?The Fleet?, an internationally important wetland, situated on the Dorset coast.
12. Over recent years, the Fleet and adjacent wetland reserves have supported
the highest numbers of mute swans of any site in the UK, the average annual
peak being of the order of 1,100 birds. Numbers peak in late summer and
early autumn, with a decline then noted due to mortality and some local
emigration. The western end of the Fleet, adjacent to the Abbotsbury
Swannery, typically supports the majority of the mute swans on the Fleet
between February and October, but there is a redistribution of many birds
mid-winter to the area around Chickerell Hive Point, further east along the
Fleet.
13. About 750 mute swans were counted on the Fleet in mid December 2007.
Approximately 250 mute swans come to the Swannery feeding site each day
at this time of year (Figure 1). Daily numbers are dependent on weather
conditions; more being present in bad conditions. In the feeding area the
swans are joined by other waterbirds, principally mallard, coot, tufted duck
and pochard, which are inevitably in close contact. Other species are present
in smaller numbers.monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040?s and farmed the swans as a food
source. The Swannery passed into the stewardship of Ilchester Estates (the
current ?owners? of the mute swan flock) in 1539. Today Abbotsbury
Swannery is a reserve for free flying swans and wild birds and forms part of
?The Fleet?, an internationally important wetland, situated on the Dorset coast.
12. Over recent years, the Fleet and adjacent wetland reserves have supported
the highest numbers of mute swans of any site in the UK, the average annual
peak being of the order of 1,100 birds. Numbers peak in late summer and
early autumn, with a decline then noted due to mortality and some local
emigration. The western end of the Fleet, adjacent to the Abbotsbury
Swannery, typically supports the majority of the mute swans on the Fleet
between February and October, but there is a redistribution of many birds
mid-winter to the area around Chickerell Hive Point, further east along the
Fleet.
13. About 750 mute swans were counted on the Fleet in mid December 2007.
Approximately 250 mute swans come to the Swannery feeding site each day
at this time of year (Figure 1). Daily numbers are dependent on weather
conditions; more being present in bad conditions. In the feeding area the
swans are joined by other waterbirds, principally mallard, coot, tufted duck
and pochard, which are inevitably in close contact. Other species are present
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
18. Genetic analysis of four of the viruses recovered places these isolates in
a cluster with others recovered in mid to late 2007 from the Czech Republic,
Romania and Poland. Nucleotide sequence comparisons identify a
Czech Republic isolate with the closest similarities with these isolates, ranging
from 98.7% to 99.4%. The genetic relatedness at the nucleotide level
between the four UK mute swan isolates analysed fully to date is 99.3% to
a cluster with others recovered in mid to late 2007 from the Czech Republic,
Romania and Poland. Nucleotide sequence comparisons identify a
Czech Republic isolate with the closest similarities with these isolates, ranging
from 98.7% to 99.4%. The genetic relatedness at the nucleotide level
between the four UK mute swan isolates analysed fully to date is 99.3% to
Page
5 of 21
Defra Epidemiology Report
HPAI swans Dorset Jan08
HPAI swans Dorset Jan08
99.8%. Similarities between these isolates from the outbreak of HPAI H5N1 in
turkeys in England in November 2007 is 99.2% to 99.3%. Analysis of the
remaining two virus isolates continues and will be reported separately.
19. In summary the viruses from the swans are closely related to each other, and
more closely related to viruses from Europe than to those recovered from the
recent outbreak in turkeys in Suffolk.turkeys in England in November 2007 is 99.2% to 99.3%. Analysis of the
remaining two virus isolates continues and will be reported separately.
19. In summary the viruses from the swans are closely related to each other, and
more closely related to viruses from Europe than to those recovered from the
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Commentary
http://www.recombinomics.com/News/01300805/H5N1_Swan_Dorset_7.html
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Commentary
http://www.recombinomics.com/News/01300805/H5N1_Swan_Dorset_7.html
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Have I read this wrongly? If the Suffolk interval is 99.2 - 99.3, but the Europe interval is wider 98.7 - 99.4, isn't the conclusion "more closely related to viruses from Suffolk than to Europe" ???
And would not the swan-Suffolk comparison be "homogeneous", or is 99.9 required?
J.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Have I read this wrongly? If the Suffolk interval is 99.2 - 99.3, but the Europe interval is wider 98.7 - 99.4, isn't the conclusion "more closely related to viruses from Suffolk than to Europe" ???
And would not the swan-Suffolk comparison be "homogeneous", or is 99.9 required?
J.
gsgs
Registered User
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
turkeys in Suffolk was Bernard Matthews in Febr.2007 ?
Count 1 year back to the common ancestor for each 0.6% of
nucleotide difference.
So those swan-viruses descend from a common host 0.5 - 1 year
ago, i.e. they were not recently introduced from one single
source.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
turkeys in Suffolk was Bernard Matthews in Febr.2007 ?
Count 1 year back to the common ancestor for each 0.6% of
nucleotide difference.
So those swan-viruses descend from a common host 0.5 - 1 year
ago, i.e. they were not recently introduced from one single
source.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
The sequences are all over the map and represent independent introductions (i.e. H5N1 is all over England and the surveillance is abysmal).
AlaskaDenise
In Memoriam
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
H5N1 Confirmed in Seventh Swan in Dorset England
Recombinomics Commentary 17:55
January 30, 2008
Defra has today confirmed that a seventh mute swan collected on 24 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.
There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population
The above comments describe the detection of a seventh H5N1 positive mute swan in Dorset, England (see satellite map). Today?s announcement was accompanied by a more detailed report on the initial positive birds. In contrast to the above statement on no evidence of widespread disease in the wild bird population, the report included data on sequence identity between the individual isolates in Dorset, as well as the relationship with other isolates, including those isolated earlier in free range turkeys in Suffolk.
The sequence data left little doubt that H5N1 is widespread in the wild bird population in southern England. The sequences were heterogeneous, indicating the birds were not recently infected by a common source, but instead were infected earlier, supporting widespread H5N1 in the wild bird population.
Release of the actual sequences would be useful, so they can be properly and independently analyzed.
.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Commentary http://www.recombinomics.com/feed.xml http://www.newsnow.co.uk/nn/Recombinomics
H5N1 Confirmed in Seventh Swan in Dorset England
Recombinomics Commentary 17:55
January 30, 2008
Defra has today confirmed that a seventh mute swan collected on 24 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset has tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.
There is currently no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild bird population
The above comments describe the detection of a seventh H5N1 positive mute swan in Dorset, England (see satellite map). Today?s announcement was accompanied by a more detailed report on the initial positive birds. In contrast to the above statement on no evidence of widespread disease in the wild bird population, the report included data on sequence identity between the individual isolates in Dorset, as well as the relationship with other isolates, including those isolated earlier in free range turkeys in Suffolk.
The sequence data left little doubt that H5N1 is widespread in the wild bird population in southern England. The sequences were heterogeneous, indicating the birds were not recently infected by a common source, but instead were infected earlier, supporting widespread H5N1 in the wild bird population.
Release of the actual sequences would be useful, so they can be properly and independently analyzed.
.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Swans got bird flu from wild bird
A case of deadly H5N1 bird flu found in wild swans in Dorset earlier this month was probably introduced by an infected migratory bird, Defra has said.
Six swans from the Abbotsbury Swannery have tested positive for the disease.
An epidemiology report said the strain of the virus is similar to that found in Europe in the latter part of 2007.
The Defra report said it is not possible to conclusively identify the source, but a migratory bird is the "most likely hypothesis".
There is no evidence of widespread infection in the wild bird population in the area and no evidence of disease in domestic birds, the report said.
'Remain vigilant'
But Defra has urged local poultry keepers to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately.
The first birds to test positive were found dead at the open reserve in the Chesil Beach area in December during routine surveillance, while further swans were found to have the disease earlier this month.
Restrictions on the movement of poultry and other captive birds in the wild bird control area, imposed in the wake of the first positive tests, remain in place, according to a Defra spokeswoman.
However, movement restrictions in the wider wild bird monitoring area around the Abbotsbury Swannery were lifted last week.
She said there is ongoing surveillance of wild birds in the area, although the disease so far appears to be confined to the six swans - representing a very low level of infection in the wild bird population on the site.
The swannery is part of an area of wetland recognised to be of international importance.
About 12 members of staff at the sanctuary have been monitored for signs of the disease by the Health Protection Agency, although the risk of infection is said to be low.
Workers have been given a course of the anti-viral drug Tamiflu as a precaution.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/uk_news/england/dorset/7219272.stm
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Swans got bird flu from wild bird
A case of deadly H5N1 bird flu found in wild swans in Dorset earlier this month was probably introduced by an infected migratory bird, Defra has said.
Six swans from the Abbotsbury Swannery have tested positive for the disease.
An epidemiology report said the strain of the virus is similar to that found in Europe in the latter part of 2007.
The Defra report said it is not possible to conclusively identify the source, but a migratory bird is the "most likely hypothesis".
There is no evidence of widespread infection in the wild bird population in the area and no evidence of disease in domestic birds, the report said.
'Remain vigilant'
But Defra has urged local poultry keepers to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately.
The first birds to test positive were found dead at the open reserve in the Chesil Beach area in December during routine surveillance, while further swans were found to have the disease earlier this month.
Restrictions on the movement of poultry and other captive birds in the wild bird control area, imposed in the wake of the first positive tests, remain in place, according to a Defra spokeswoman.
However, movement restrictions in the wider wild bird monitoring area around the Abbotsbury Swannery were lifted last week.
She said there is ongoing surveillance of wild birds in the area, although the disease so far appears to be confined to the six swans - representing a very low level of infection in the wild bird population on the site.
The swannery is part of an area of wetland recognised to be of international importance.
About 12 members of staff at the sanctuary have been monitored for signs of the disease by the Health Protection Agency, although the risk of infection is said to be low.
Workers have been given a course of the anti-viral drug Tamiflu as a precaution.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/uk_news/england/dorset/7219272.stm
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Commentary at
http://www.recombinomics.com/News/01310806/H5N1_Wild_Birds_England.html
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Commentary at
http://www.recombinomics.com/News/01310806/H5N1_Wild_Birds_England.html
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
This was very helpful. Thank you.
J.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
This was very helpful. Thank you.
J.
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Wild swans test positive for avian flu
News - FG | 1 February, 2008
MIGRATORY birds from Europe are believed to have brought avian flu to the Dorset coast, according to the latest epidemiology report on the recent outbreak.
The report suggests that the infection arrived in mid-December and could have come from the Czech Republic, Poland or Romania, which have all reported similar strains of the virus in recent months.
The arrival of the disease is believed to be the first in wild birds on mainland UK, but is not expected to spread beyond the mute swan population. Presenting the report, acting chief veterinary officer Fred Landeg revealed that tests on wild bird populations and domestic poultry in the Devon area suggested the infection was confined and unlikely to spread further.
However, he urged poultry keepers to remain alert to signs of the disease and to maintain strict biosecurity measures.
He said: ?There is no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild population, but we are at a constant low risk of introduction of avian influenza and we do urge and continue to urge poultry keepers in the area to remain vigilant and report signs of the disease.
?Animal Health officers have visited all premises in the area which keep domestic poultry, and no incidence of the virus has been found.?
The report came as Defra announced the discovery of a seventh infected swan, found at the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset on January 24. Mr Landeg said the discovery was ?not unexpected? and he anticipates that another positive result could be announced in the coming week.
http://www.farmersguardian.com/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=15999
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Wild swans test positive for avian flu
News - FG | 1 February, 2008
MIGRATORY birds from Europe are believed to have brought avian flu to the Dorset coast, according to the latest epidemiology report on the recent outbreak.
The report suggests that the infection arrived in mid-December and could have come from the Czech Republic, Poland or Romania, which have all reported similar strains of the virus in recent months.
The arrival of the disease is believed to be the first in wild birds on mainland UK, but is not expected to spread beyond the mute swan population. Presenting the report, acting chief veterinary officer Fred Landeg revealed that tests on wild bird populations and domestic poultry in the Devon area suggested the infection was confined and unlikely to spread further.
However, he urged poultry keepers to remain alert to signs of the disease and to maintain strict biosecurity measures.
He said: ?There is no evidence to suggest widespread disease in the wild population, but we are at a constant low risk of introduction of avian influenza and we do urge and continue to urge poultry keepers in the area to remain vigilant and report signs of the disease.
?Animal Health officers have visited all premises in the area which keep domestic poultry, and no incidence of the virus has been found.?
The report came as Defra announced the discovery of a seventh infected swan, found at the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset on January 24. Mr Landeg said the discovery was ?not unexpected? and he anticipates that another positive result could be announced in the coming week.
http://www.farmersguardian.com/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=15999
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Friday, 1 February 2008, 12:40 GMT
More swans found to have bird flu
Two more dead swans have tested positive for the deadly H5N1 bird flu, Defra has said.
This brings the total number of swans from the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset found to have the disease to nine.
Defra said it expected more cases to emerge over the coming weeks but stressed there was no evidence it had spread to other wild birds or poultry.
A report published last month said the disease was probably introduced into the area by an infected migratory bird.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7222248.stm
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Friday, 1 February 2008, 12:40 GMT
More swans found to have bird flu
Two more dead swans have tested positive for the deadly H5N1 bird flu, Defra has said.
This brings the total number of swans from the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset found to have the disease to nine.
Defra said it expected more cases to emerge over the coming weeks but stressed there was no evidence it had spread to other wild birds or poultry.
A report published last month said the disease was probably introduced into the area by an infected migratory bird.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7222248.stm
Last edited by a moderator:
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=629 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD colSpan=3>More swans found to have bird flu
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width=416><!-- S BO --><!-- S IIMA --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=203 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>
Nine mute swans have tested positive for H5N1 bird flu
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><!-- E IIMA --><!-- S SF -->Two more dead wild swans have tested positive for the deadly H5N1 bird flu, Defra has said.
This brings the total number of swans from the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset found to have the disease to nine.
Defra said it expected more cases to emerge over the coming weeks but stressed there was no evidence it had spread to other wild birds or poultry.
A report published last month said the disease was probably introduced into the area by an infected migratory bird. <!-- E SF -->
It also said evidence suggested the level of infection in the mute swan population was low.
Routine surveillance
Defra is urging local poultry keepers to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately.
The first birds to test positive were found dead at the open reserve in the Chesil Beach area in December during routine surveillance, while further swans were found to have the disease last month.
Restrictions are still in place on the movement of poultry and other captive birds in the wild bird control area, imposed after the first positive tests. The swannery is part of an area of wetland recognised to be of international importance. Some staff at the sanctuary have been monitored for signs of the disease, although the risk of infection is said to be low.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7222248.stm
Re: Bird Flu Infects Seventh Swan In SW England
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=629 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD colSpan=3>More swans found to have bird flu
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width=416><!-- S BO --><!-- S IIMA --><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=203 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><!-- E IIMA --><!-- S SF -->Two more dead wild swans have tested positive for the deadly H5N1 bird flu, Defra has said.
This brings the total number of swans from the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset found to have the disease to nine.
Defra said it expected more cases to emerge over the coming weeks but stressed there was no evidence it had spread to other wild birds or poultry.
A report published last month said the disease was probably introduced into the area by an infected migratory bird. <!-- E SF -->
It also said evidence suggested the level of infection in the mute swan population was low.
Routine surveillance
Defra is urging local poultry keepers to remain vigilant and report any signs of disease immediately.
The first birds to test positive were found dead at the open reserve in the Chesil Beach area in December during routine surveillance, while further swans were found to have the disease last month.
Restrictions are still in place on the movement of poultry and other captive birds in the wild bird control area, imposed after the first positive tests. The swannery is part of an area of wetland recognised to be of international importance. Some staff at the sanctuary have been monitored for signs of the disease, although the risk of infection is said to be low.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7222248.stm
Re: Bird Flu Infects 9th Swan In SW England
Two further swans positive for H5N1
<!-- print_content end -->
01/02/2008 12:19:55
Two further swans positive for H5N1Defra has today confirmed that another two dead wild mute swans, collected on 28 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset have tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.
This brings the total number of swans confirmed with H5N1 on the site to nine. From today, any further new cases will be published on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu. Further cases in the coming weeks would not be unexpected.
As described in the recent epidemiology report, evidence suggests that the level of infection in the mute swan population is low, and there remains no evidence of spread to other wild birds or domestic poultry.
Defra is continuing to keep the disease risk to domestic poultry and control measures under review and will be assessing options for any changes to the current restrictions in place, should evidence continue to point to a low level of infection confined to the mute swan population.
Poultry keepers in the area are reminded of the requirement to house or otherwise keep separate their birds from wild birds, and remain vigilant for signs of disease, reporting any suspicions immediately.
Our enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing including active patrols to look for dead wild birds.
http://www.farminguk.com/index.asp?show=newsArticle&id=6258
This brings the total number of swans confirmed with H5N1 on the site to nine. From today, any further new cases will be published on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu. Further cases in the coming weeks would not be unexpected.
As described in the recent epidemiology report, evidence suggests that the level of infection in the mute swan population is low, and there remains no evidence of spread to other wild birds or domestic poultry.
Defra is continuing to keep the disease risk to domestic poultry and control measures under review and will be assessing options for any changes to the current restrictions in place, should evidence continue to point to a low level of infection confined to the mute swan population.
Poultry keepers in the area are reminded of the requirement to house or otherwise keep separate their birds from wild birds, and remain vigilant for signs of disease, reporting any suspicions immediately.
Our enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing including active patrols to look for dead wild birds.
http://www.farminguk.com/index.asp?show=newsArticle&id=6258
<!-- print_content end -->
Re: Bird Flu Infects 9th Swan In SW England
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
<!-- #BeginEditable "Pre-title" --><!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Title" -->Avian influenza update: two further swans positive for H5N1 <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Body" -->Defra has today confirmed that another two dead wild mute swans, collected on 28 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset have tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.
This brings the total number of swans confirmed with H5N1 on the site to nine. From today, any further new cases will be published on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu. Further cases in the coming weeks would not be unexpected.
As described in the recent epidemiology report, evidence suggests that the level of infection in the mute swan population is low, and there remains no evidence of spread to other wild birds or domestic poultry.
Defra is continuing to keep the disease risk to domestic poultry and control measures under review and will be assessing options for any changes to the current restrictions in place, should evidence continue to point to a low level of infection confined to the mute swan population.
Poultry keepers in the area are reminded of the requirement to house or otherwise keep separate their birds from wild birds, and remain vigilant for signs of disease, reporting any suspicions immediately. Our enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing including active patrols to look for dead wild birds.
<!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Editors" -->Further information <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Notes" -->
http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2008/080201b.htm<!-- InstanceEndEditable --><!--End Date-->
<!--Footer-->
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
<!-- #BeginEditable "Pre-title" --><!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Title" -->Avian influenza update: two further swans positive for H5N1 <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Body" -->Defra has today confirmed that another two dead wild mute swans, collected on 28 January as part of wild bird surveillance in the same area in Dorset have tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza.
This brings the total number of swans confirmed with H5N1 on the site to nine. From today, any further new cases will be published on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu. Further cases in the coming weeks would not be unexpected.
As described in the recent epidemiology report, evidence suggests that the level of infection in the mute swan population is low, and there remains no evidence of spread to other wild birds or domestic poultry.
Defra is continuing to keep the disease risk to domestic poultry and control measures under review and will be assessing options for any changes to the current restrictions in place, should evidence continue to point to a low level of infection confined to the mute swan population.
Poultry keepers in the area are reminded of the requirement to house or otherwise keep separate their birds from wild birds, and remain vigilant for signs of disease, reporting any suspicions immediately. Our enhanced surveillance of wild birds in the area is continuing including active patrols to look for dead wild birds.
<!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Editors" -->Further information <!-- #EndEditable -->
<!-- #BeginEditable "Notes" -->
- Information is available from the Defra Helpline (08459 33 55 77) - see www.defra.gov.uk for current opening hours. Bird keepers can also call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest updates on 0844 884 4600.
- Avian Influenza is a disease of birds. While it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this usually requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
- All Avian Influenza (H1 to H16) can be low pathogenic but only H5 and H7 are known to become highly pathogenic.
- All poultry keepers registered with the GB Poultry Register will be contacted by text message with updates. All poultry keepers responsible for a premises with 50 or more birds are legally required to register. Defra strongly encourages those with less than 50 birds to register voluntarily.
- The details on the measures that apply in the current zones can be found on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/avianflu/
End
Public enquiries: 08459 335577
News releases available on our website:
www.defra.gov.uk
Defra's aim is sustainable development
<!--End of Central Content editable text area --><!--Date Modified and Published--><!-- InstanceBeginEditable name="PubDate" -->Page published: 1 February 2008 13:13 Public enquiries: 08459 335577
News releases available on our website:
www.defra.gov.uk
Defra's aim is sustainable development
http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2008/080201b.htm<!-- InstanceEndEditable --><!--End Date-->
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