Avian Flu Hits Turkey Farm in Lincolnshire – 80% of Birds Dead
The government has confirmed a severe outbreak of avian influenza at a commercial turkey unit in Grimsby, Lincolnshire. Reports estimate a staggering 80% of the flock has died, prompting urgent action from Defra.
Mass Culling and Strict Zones Put in Place
With most birds already dead, all remaining turkeys at the infected farm will be humanely culled to prevent further spread. Defra has established a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone around the site to contain the virus.
Public Health Risk “Very Low” – Christmas Turkey Supply Safe
Public Health England (PHE) assures the public that the risk to human health is very low. The Food Standards Agency confirms there is no food safety risk from bird flu in the UK. “Thoroughly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat,” they stress.
Chief Veterinary Officer Nigel Gibbens said:
“This is the same strain affecting poultry across Europe. Immediate steps are underway to stop the spread. Bird keepers must stay vigilant, report any signs of disease, and maintain strict biosecurity.”
Nationwide Prevention Zones and Rising Threat
An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, active since 6 December, remains in force across England, Scotland, and Wales. Poultry owners are urged to keep birds indoors where possible and boost biosecurity measures.
Avian flu outbreaks in wild and farmed birds across Europe — including Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands — have raised the UK’s risk level from “Low” to “Medium”. Authorities are on high alert to stop any further incursions.
PHE added:
“H5N8 has never been recorded in humans, so the public health risk remains very low. We will provide health advice to anyone potentially exposed on the farm as a precaution.”
