Two more farms, both close to the Norfolk farm that was infected with the H7N3 bird flu strain a few days ago, have also become infected with what looks like the same strain. Defra (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) stated that initial test results indicated the H7N3 bird flu virus strain had infected the chickens. Further lab tests should confirm this within days.
Although H7N3 is dangerous for chickens, it is nowhere near as virulent for humans as H5N1 is. Authorities are assuring the British public that this strain is a very low risk to humans.
Both infected flocks were free-range chickens. This means they roam around in fields, not under cover. Both flocks will be slaughtered. A restricted zone has been put in place extending one kilometre from each of the infected premises.
A Defra spokesman said "The State Veterinary Service is tracing movements and contacts, the necessary surveillance and all appropriate worker protection measures have been put in place."
Authorities are also trying to find out what contact, if any, there has been between the three infected farms.
A worker at the farm that was infected a few days ago was also infected with the H7N3 strain. He had conjunctivitis and did not need hospitalisation.
Source
Although H7N3 is dangerous for chickens, it is nowhere near as virulent for humans as H5N1 is. Authorities are assuring the British public that this strain is a very low risk to humans.
Both infected flocks were free-range chickens. This means they roam around in fields, not under cover. Both flocks will be slaughtered. A restricted zone has been put in place extending one kilometre from each of the infected premises.
A Defra spokesman said "The State Veterinary Service is tracing movements and contacts, the necessary surveillance and all appropriate worker protection measures have been put in place."
Authorities are also trying to find out what contact, if any, there has been between the three infected farms.
A worker at the farm that was infected a few days ago was also infected with the H7N3 strain. He had conjunctivitis and did not need hospitalisation.
Source