TWO new cases of the highly contagious bird flu have been confirmed in North Yorkshire according to the Government website.

The highly contagious influenza was confirmed at a premises near Thirsk in Hambleton, and near Richmond.

Reportedly the case in Thirsk is the seventh in the area and the two new cases brings the total cases in England to 28, with 10 cases in North Yorkshire.

As a result a three kilometre protection zone and a 10 kilometre surveillance zone has been put in place around each of the premises.

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone came into force across Britain on November 3, which was extended to include housing measures across the UK on the November 29.

The measures mean it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers across the UK to keep their birds indoors and follow strict biosecurity measures to limit the spread and eradicate the disease.

Here’s what it means bird keepers must do:

  • house or net all poultry and captive birds to keep them separate from wild birds.
  • cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing.
  • reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective vermin control.
  • thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing on a continuous basis.
  • keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points.
  • minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds.