There are currently some outbreaks of Avian Influenza in Europe, with several new EU countries now affected (Finland, France, Romania and Sweden).

There are reports of H5N8 HPAI in wild birds (including; Tufted Ducks, Common Pochards, mute swans and various gulls as well as other waterfowl, such as grebes, curlews, herons and coots and some raptor species), poultry and captive birds and these are continuing. To date there have been 35 outbreaks in domestic poultry (Austria, Hungary, Germany, Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden), five in captive birds (Germany and Netherlands), one in captive wild birds (France).

The risk to the UK remains at medium for any incidents of H5N8 HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) due to the movements of wild birds. The migration season is expected to peak between December and January when migratory birds will be present at their normal wintering sites here in the UK, however these birds are already arriving and have been for several weeks now.

To enable better monitoring of the situation here in the UK, Defra are once again asking the public to assist them by reporting incidences where they come across more than five birds of any species found dead grouped together or where a single wild duck, wild goose, swan or gull is found.

You can report these to Defra using their helpline (Tel: 03459 33 55 77), defra.helpline@defra.gsi.gov.ukor on twitter by using  #BirdFlu and tweeting to @DefraGovUK. the latest data captures can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-in-europe

Further details can be found at: https://aphascience.blog.gov.uk/2016/11/29/tracking-bird-flu-across-continents/