Scotland Probably Has First Case Of UK Bird Flu (H5N1)

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Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Veterinary
Article Date: 06 Apr 2006 - 14:00 PDT

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Authorities in the UK know that a dead swan, found in Fife, Scotland, died of an H5 strain of bird flu. H5N1, the lethal strain, is suspected. Confirmation after further tests will appear later today.

A partially decomposed body of a Swan was found about ten miles from St. Andrews.

On both sides of the border authorities have activated emergency procedures.

In the United Kingdom, the press, especially the tabloid press, will be sifting through the procedures carried out by authorities with a toothcomb, looking for cases of incompetence. The population will read what the media has to say and either praise or condemn them. It is a country where even sporting heroes' standings can change from one day to the next - the press is severe and unforgiving.

There are already complaints that authorities were not swift enough. Locals cannot understand how a swan got there as they never see swans in the area.

After tests confirmed the dead swan died of a H5 bird flu virus strain, a three kilometre exclusion zone was thrown around the area. The H5 bird flu strain had never been found in British indigenous birds before.

A spokesman for the Scottish Executive said they do not yet know what the exact strain of the virus is. As well as the 3km Exclusion Zone, they have implemented a 10km Surveillance Zone. Anyone within the area (Protection Zone) has been instructed to keep pet and farmed birds isolated. The movement of poultry, eggs and poultry products is also restricted.

Charles Milne, Scotland's Chief Veterinary Officer said "While the disease has yet to be confirmed, this is an important development. Bird keepers outside the protection zone should redouble their efforts to prepare for bringing their birds indoors if that becomes necessary. They must also review their biosecurity measures to ensure that all possible precautions have been taken."

Farmers are say they do not expect farmed poultry to become infected.

The UK was in the middle of Exercise Hawthorn when the dead swan was discovered. Exercise Hawthorn was a country-wide exercise for bird flu. It has been brought to an end to ensure authorities can bring all resources to bear on this new development.

Samples of the dead swan were sent to the European Union's laboratories in Weybridge, England. Final results are expected later today.

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

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