"I can report that further to recent Avian flu outbreak near Banbury the situation seems to have stabilised with no further cases of the disease discovered.
Key briefing points:
Testing has been carried out on a number of suspect bird deaths since last week, all of which have reported negative.
The 10km & 3km control zones that were set up around the premises, much of which were in Warwickshire are still subject to certain restrictions. These will remain in place until further notice.
All 24,000 laying hens formerly kept at the infected premises have been culled and disposed of, extensive cleansing and disinfecting continues on this premises. The cause of the outbreak remains unclear.
Trading Standards staff have worked with DEFRA colleagues to identify all kept birds in the area so that necessary checks can be carried out.
The H7N7 strain of Avian Influenza does not carry a significant public health risk
All footpaths remain open
Bird gatherings and sales, outside of the control zones (including Henley Market) may still operate.
Warwickshire Trading Standards Service, who are leading the WCC response have been in close contact with all stakeholders, including the regional and national agencies; the NFU; Oxfordshire County Council as well as District and borough partners."
Mark Ryder
Head of Trading Standards & Healthier Communities
Warwickshire Trading Standards Service
Adult, Health & Community Services
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
Current Situation
An outbreak of Avian Influenza has been confirmed on a premise near Shennington (Oxfordshire).
The disease is the Highly Pathogenic H7 strain, not H5N1.
The flock affected are approximately 24,000 free range layers. 3km and 10km zones have been established around the premise and both zones extend in to Warwickshire.
It is vital that all bird keepers in the UK continue to maintain good biosecurity and be vigilant for any signs of disease. If you are concerned about the health of your birds you should seek advice from your veterinary surgeon. If you suspect that your birds have avian influenza, you should report it to your local Defra Animal Health Office (Leicester) immediately.
For more information on Avian Influenza, visit the Defra website