DEFRA’s first epidemiological report into the recent H5N1 avian flu outbreak in Suffolk, published today (29 November), indicates the outbreak has been confined to one index case, but fails to ‘categorically identify the source of the outbreak”.

The report cites ‘poor biosecurity’ and the location of the free range poultry unit (IP1) – just metres away from an ornamental lake which was inhabited by wild birds - as significant findings, and does not rule out wild birds as the source of infection.  

“The risks could have been significantly reduced if the premises had not been sited in such close proximity to an area,” said Mr Landeg.    

Only one of the five dangerous contact (DC) premises, culled by DEFRA as a result of birds being tended by the same stockmen who employed poor biosecurity measures on the first premises, have so far tested positive for the H5N1 virus.

According to the investigation, workers travelled between units without changing overalls, foot wear and, in some cases, without even washing their hands.

Extensive surveillance of both wild and domestic birds in the area continues, however preliminary findings suggest the infection failed to spread beyond the initial infected premises.

When questioned as to whether the report identified wild birds as the ‘most likely source of infection’ and whether avian flu is now deemed as endemic in the UK, Mr Landeg replied that there was no evidence of any other route of infection to date.

“So far, there is no evidence to link the outbreak with imported poultry or products and the H5N1 has not been identified in the wild bird population,” said Mr Landeg.

Sequencing data from the Veterinary Laboratories Agency indicates the strain found at Redgrave is genetically 99.8% identical to that found in a mute swan in the Czech Republic.

Questioned if any links with this case had been identified, Mr Landeg replied: “We have found no evidence that explains how it could have been introduced onto the premises (IP1) or any links with the Czech Republic.”

He went on to reinforce Hilary Benn’s vision for responsibility and cost sharing between industry and government. “Biosecurity is clearly an industry responsibility and it must look to ensure good practice across each sector.”

Protection zones could be lifted as early as 8 December, Mr Landeg added. “Depending on not finding any other cases, the protection zone can be lifted 21 days after the last outbreak and the surveillance zone 30 days, which would be the 19th December.”