More Cases of Avian Flu Confirmed in Fife

Another outbreak of avian influenza was confirmed at a Fife farm near Crossgates on February 2nd 2023. Movement restrictions, including poultry, eggs, carcasses, used poultry litter and manure, have been introduced to prevent the further spread of the disease.

This is Fife’s second outbreak reported in recent months, with a farm near Ladybank in December confirming the presence of the highly pathogenic virus.

Nigel Kerr, Fife council’s head of protective services, has said the council is supporting the Scottish Government's Animal and Plant Health Agency to advise and monitor the situation. Adding that “We are working closely with partners in APHA, Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, and Fife NHS”.

“Once avian flu has been confirmed, there are strict national guidelines we have to follow when dealing with ill or dead birds. Disease control zones and restrictions are in place in the area. We’re following all the national guidance and supporting APHA while dealing with this outbreak.

“The team from APHA are actively contacting bird keepers within the disease control zone providing advice.”

Dunfermline’s Woodlea Poultry Farm has been placed under a three-kilometre exclusion zone along with a further 10km zone for surveillance. This year, so far six farms in Scotland have been quarantined due to bird flu cases.

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