The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed that bird flu has been detected in 17 wild birds.
This is the first confirmed case of the virus in the UK this winter and tests have shown that it is closely related to the H5N6 strain that has been circulating in wild birds across Europe in recent months.
While there is no legislative requirement to put restrictions in place when this strain of virus is found in wild birds, the Chief Veterinary Officer has confirmed local measures will be introduced to help manage the potential threat.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) have said that bird flu does not pose a food safety risk for consumers.
The risk to domestic poultry nationally remains low, however good biosecurity is essential and bird keepers across the country are reminded to follow biosecurity advice which includes specific advice for keepers of backyard flocks.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT AVIAN FLU?
Read IFST's Information Statement on Avian Influenza and Food