An outbreak of the H5N8 strain of avian flu has been confirmed in East Yorkshire.

Rural affairs secretary urges farmers to be vigilant after Yorkshire outbreak

Scottish poultry farmers are urged to be vigilant for signs of avian flu after an outbreak of the H5N8 strain at a duck breeding farm in Yorkshire.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said the Scottish Government is monitoring the case closely.

"Although avian influenza has been confirmed in England only, I urge Scottish poultry producers to stay vigilant for any signs of disease – and my officials have this afternoon updated industry representatives and other key stakeholders with the latest information and veterinary advice," he said.

"The Scottish Government is continuing to work closely with our counterparts and delivery partners across the UK and we stand ready to take appropriate action as required."

Scotland's chief veterinary officer Sheila Voas said poultry farmers should continue to ensure good biosecurity whilst monitoring their birds for signs of disease.

As avian flu is a notifiable disease, suspected cases must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (AHPA).

The outbreak in East Yorkshire was confirmed on Sunday afternoon (November 16). Defra's animal health laboratory in Weybridge has since confirmed the strain to be H5N8.

Risks to public health are said to be very low and the Food Standards Agency has confirmed there are no food safety concerns.

Members of the public are also asked to report incidents where five birds are found dead at the same time, in the same location. Such cases should be reported to Defra on 0845 933 5577.