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Further avian flu cases in Suffolk confirmed
Avian flu was confirmed at two sites in Suffolk over the weekend.

Protection and surveillance zones have been placed around the affected premises.

Two further cases of highly pathogenic (HPAI) avian influenza were identified in Suffolk over the weekend, Defra has confirmed.

Avian influenza H5N1 was confirmed in birds at premises near Market Weston on Sunday (12 March). The disease was also identified in commercial poultry at a second premises near Redgrave the day before.

Defra said that protection and surveillance zones of three and 10km have been placed around the affected premises and that all birds will be humanely culled. 

The announcement comes as the UK faces its largest-ever bird flu outbreak, and brings the total number of confirmed UK cases in England since October 2021 to 85.

Chief vet Christine Middlemiss said: “We have taken swift action to limit the spread of the disease, including introducing housing measures. However, we are still seeing a number of bird flu cases both on commercial farms and in backyard birds right across the country.

“Many poultry keepers have excellent biosecurity standards but the number of cases we are seeing suggests that not enough is being done to keep bird flu out. Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands you must take action now to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.”
 
She continued: “The avian flu outbreak has not gone away and implementing scrupulous biosecurity remains absolutely critical. You must continue to regularly clean and disinfect your footwear and clothes before entering enclosures, stop your birds mixing with any wild birds and only allow visitors that are strictly necessary. It is your actions that will help keep your birds safe.

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Voting opens for BEVA Council

News Story 1
 Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.

There are five candidates standing for four available places on Council. They are:

  • Alexandre Triguino
  • Angela Jones
  • Beth Bryant
  • Holly Rees
  • Hugh Somerville
Full profiles for each candidate can be found on the BEVA website

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'