Farmers are being urged to strengthen biosecurity measures after a case of avian influenza (H5N1) was confirmed in a sheep in Yorkshire—the first reported instance of the virus in the species.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss has stated that while the risk to livestock remains low, all farm owners should implement strict cleanliness protocols and report any suspected cases to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Similar cases of avian-origin influenza have previously been identified in dairy cows in the US.
Nigel Bennet, livestock area manager for Northern Europe at Roam Technology, stressed the importance of preventive measures, including restricting visitor access, disinfecting equipment, and closely monitoring animal health. He advised farmers to quarantine new or returning livestock for at least 21 days, secure feed storage, and conduct daily health checks to prevent disease spread.
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in poultry, captive birds, and certain mammals. Farmers suspecting infections must report cases to APHA in England (03000 200 301), Wales (0300 303 8268), or their local Field Services Office in Scotland.
