FIRST-EVER BIRD FLU CASE DETECTED IN SHEEP IN ENGLAND

An Emirati Magazine publication – Released on March 25, 2025 | www.emiratimagazine.com

The British government announced on Monday that avian influenza (H5N1) has been detected in a sheep in England for the first time. The case was identified during routine livestock monitoring at a farm in Yorkshire, where the virus was previously found in captive birds.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss confirmed the discovery, stating that strict biosecurity measures have been enforced to prevent further spread. She urged livestock owners to maintain high hygiene standards and report any symptoms to the Animal Plant Health Agency immediately.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reassured the public that avian influenza primarily affects birds and poses minimal risk to humans. Dr. Meera Chand from UKHSA emphasized that while mammals can contract H5N1, current strains do not easily spread to humans.

Meanwhile, the Food Standards Agency assured consumers that properly cooked poultry and eggs remain safe for consumption, with no significant food safety concerns.