ALL birds at a poultry farm in Alcester are set to be culled after bird flu spread through the premises.

The government confirmed on November 7 that Avian influenza H5N1, otherwise known as bird flu, was found at a small poultry farm near Alcester.

On November 8, after further testing the virus was confirmed to be a ‘highly pathogenic strain’ and all birds will be humanely culled.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said a 1.8-mile protection zone and a six mile surveillance have been placed around the premise.

When avian influenza is confirmed or suspected in poultry or other captive birds, disease control zones are put in place around the infected premises to prevent the spread of the disease.

Within these zones a range of restrictions on the movement of poultry and material associated with their keeping can apply.

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone has been declared across Great Britain meaning all bird keepers are required by law to take a range of biosecurity precautions.

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There are currently three cases of bird flu in England including at Wychbold Swan Rescue Centre near Droitwich Spa.

There is also one case of avian influenza in Wales.