Lincolnshire poultry farmers, along with others across the UK, are being mandated to relocate their flocks indoors due to an increase in avian flu cases across Europe. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has issued new regulations ordering that farmers with flocks of fifty birds or more must shelter their poultry to reduce contact with wild birds – known carriers of the virus. This is part of an effort to stave off outbreaks like those recently seen at commercial farms in other parts of England. Local farmers and vendors of poultry products are strongly encouraged to comply with these guidelines until further instruction is given. Christine Middlemiss, the Chief Veterinary Officer in the UK, has highlighted the significance of these preventative measures in light of the rising number of cases. This directive is issued as bird flu, particularly the H5N1 strain, continues to pose a substantial threat.
This article has been developed by The Lincoln Post, based on original reports available on www.telegraph.co.uk.
