Christopher Fraser, MP for South West Norfolk, has spoken of his dismay that the H5N1 Avian Flu virus has been confirmed at Redgrave, just over the county border from his constituency.
Christopher Fraser said: “Like everyone in the area, I had been hoping that this would prove to be one of the less virulent strains of the H5 virus. This is potentially devastating news for poultry farmers in the region. Clearly the priority is to establish the relevant biosecurity control and try to determine how the virus got here. We can still hope that the outbreak will be prevented from spreading.
“My understanding is that bird flu is only passed to humans by close contact with infected birds. I urge local people to be sensible and take heed of control zone restrictions.
“The Minister, Lord Rooker, has confirmed to me that the cull at Redgrave is proceeding this afternoon, and that measures will be taken at this and any other premises that proves to be infected in order to maximise biosecurity and minimise distress to those affected.
“It is also important to remember that properly cooked chicken and turkey is perfectly safe to eat. Infected birds will not get into the food chain. Our local farmers need all our support while this nightmare is on-going.”
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