Biosecurity measures are the key to limiting the spread of the virus into domestic and commercial flocks.
The H5N1 strain is particularly virulent. There is a high degree of mortality amongst infected birds, so whether wild or not, they die quickly. Protecting birds from risks of exposure is all important. Keep birds indoors if at all possible.
I am assured there is no risk to human health from eating poultry so long as it is properly cooked. With farm incomes under pressure because of the blunders of the Rural Payments Agency, the last thing we need is for roast chicken to be banished from the nation's menu. Nor should the countryside be declared off limits to day-trippers and tourists.
Whitehall's response has so far been measured and proportionate. But advice needs to be readily available to all and extra money will be needed from the Government if the outbreak spreads across the country.
It is impossible to control the disease among wild birds so they pose the biggest threat to reared birds.
The next meeting of the Ludlow Bird & Poultry Forum is on Friday 19th May when a Ministry official will bring attendees up-to-date with infection rates and then current containment measures. All are welcome to Ludlow Football Stadium at 6.30pm (£5 annual membership fee, payable on door) please register by calling 01584 872 187.
