A bird flu outbreak has been confirmed near Dorchester.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) revealed that the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1strain has been discovered at a premises near Dorchester keeping captive birds.

Bournemouth Echo:

  • A protection zone is in place Picture: DEFRA 

A protection zone of 3km (1.8 miles) is in place south-east of the town covering villages including Sutton Poyntz and Broadmayne.

A spokesperson for Dorset Council said: "The APHA confirmed that they have found avian influenza in captive birds at a premises near Dorchester, West Dorset. A 3km Captive Bird (Monitoring) Controlled Zone has been declared around the premises.

"The public should adhere to any signs restricting access and continue to follow guidance.

"The APHA are the lead agency for this matter. Dorset Council officers will be supporting them by enforcing restrictions in the controlled area and assisting with further surveillance measures."

Read more: Bird flu outbreak sparks precautions at Bournemouth Aviary

All of the birds will be humanely culled.

The current outbreak of avian flu is the biggest on record in the UK, there have been 139 confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 since 1 October 2022:

  • 126 cases in England
  • 9 cases in Scotland
  • 3 cases in Wales
  • 1 case in Northern Ireland