WattAgNet: UK H5N8 avian influenza outbreak resolved, reports OIE

With no new cases of H5N8 reported and the premises disinfected, OIE says the event is closed
Release Date: 2015-02-17
An outbreak of H5N8 avian influenza that originated at a housed duck breeding farm in the U.K. has been resolved, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has reported.

The outbreak was confirmed in November 2014, where H5N8 avian influenza was found at a duck farm in East Riding of Yorkshire. According to the OIE, more than 6,000 birds were susceptible, and 803 ducks died after contracting the virus.

The UK farm had noticed a drop in egg production from the ducks leading up to the confirmation of H5N8 avian influenza. Underlying bacterial/fungal infections likely preceded the avian influenza infections, reported the OIE.

Control measures implemented included stamping out, quarantine, movement control, screening and disinfection of the infected premises.

According to the OIE, no other cases of H5N8 avian influenza occurred in the U.K. since that duck farm was affected. The surveillance zone that was established was lifted on December 21, and the final disinfection of the farm was concluded on February 13.

Animal health officials believe the ducks were infected with avian influenza through contact with wild birds.

Since the OIE stated that the avian influenza “event is now closed,” it will not release any further reports on the outbreak.