An outbreak of Bird Flu has been confirmed at a premises near to Stoke-by-Nayland, Suffolk.
The outbreak is in kept birds and there are no cases in people.
We are working with Suffolk County Council and the Animal and Plant Health Agency on the response to the outbreak.
Avian Influenza is a disease which mainly affects birds, but on rare occasions, it can affect mammals including humans. Consequently, a number of precautionary measures are being put in place.
Officers from Essex County Council will be visiting houses and commercial properties within a 3km Protection Zone, which includes a small part of Essex around Little Horkesley and Boxted, to identify any poultry keepers.
They will also explain the actions that need to be undertaken (including a requirement to house or keep poultry isolated) and advise who to contact in the event of a suspected case.
Road signage will be erected on main roads entering or leaving the 3km Protection Zone.
A further 10km Surveillance Zone around the outbreak encompasses the Essex towns and villages of Bures, Wormingford, Fordham, West Bergholt, Great Horkesley, northern areas of Colchester, Ardleigh, Langham and Dedham.
Find out more about these zones online.
Avian Influenza is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low. However, anyone who is concerned should call NHS 111 or speak to their GP.
Pet owners with other animals do not usually need to take other action. If a person has concerns regarding their pet, they should contact their private veterinary surgeon.
For more advice or to find out more about Bird Flu, otherwise known as Avian Influenza, visit the Government website.