27,000 chickens culled as low pathogen avian influenza found in Suffolk flock

As a precaution however, antivirals are being offered to anyone who has had contact with the affected birds.

The British Free Range Egg Producers Association stressed that all poultry keepers – commercial and backyard flocks – should maintain high levels of biosecurity.

‘Be alert’

Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said: “Bird keepers should remain alert for any signs of diease, report suspected disease immediately and ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises.

“We are urgently looking for any evidence of disease spread associated with this strain to control and eliminate it.”

The last confirmed case of LPAI in the UK was in Dunfermline in January 2016.

This less serious strain of H5 avian influenza can cause mild breathing problems, but it not always noticeable in affected birds.

Since June 2017, there have been no detections of avian influenza in poultry or kept birds in the UK.

Bird flu is a notifiable animal disease, and any keepers who suspect the disease in their flock must report it immediately to the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.

Failure to do so is an offence.