Dozens of birds found dead on island due to ‘flu epidemic’

Dozens of birds have been found dead after an outbreak of bird flu on the Shetland Isles. 

Avian influenza (H5N1) was detected at a small commercial free-range layer premises on the Island of Whalsay on Saturday.

The Scottish Government confirmed the outbreak of the virus and said the risk towards the general public was “very low”.

A spokesperson said: “The Scottish Government can confirm an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 at a small commercial free-range layer premises on the Island of Whalsay, Shetland Islands.

 “An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains in place across the UK. 

“This means that it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity measures in order to limit the spread of and eradicate the disease.

 “The risk to the general public’s health from avian influenza is very low. 

“However, the risk to people with intensive exposure to infected birds is considered to be low. 

“Food Standards Scotland advises that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers, and it does not affect the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.”

The virus was also found to be present on the nearby Isle of Foula, with the island’s heritage group confirming “many of our Bonxies are dying”.

A spokesperson from Foula Heritage said: “The Bird Flu epidemic is bad in Shetland now.

“Many of our Bonxies are dying.

“Being a cannibal is not a good strategy when your victims are infectious.”

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