First-Ever Bird Flu Case in Sheep Confirmed in Yorkshire
A case of H5N1 bird flu has been confirmed in a sheep in Yorkshire, marking the first known case of its kind in the world. The infection was detected through routine surveillance on a farm where avian influenza had already been found in captive birds. The affected ewe, which showed signs of mastitis, was culled, and no further cases were found in the flock. The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, assured that the risk to livestock remains low but emphasized the importance of strict biosecurity measures.
This case adds to the growing list of mammals infected by H5N1 globally, including dairy cows in the U.S., where the virus has been spreading since March 2024. While some human cases have been reported worldwide, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. UK Health Security Agency’s Dr. Meera Chand reiterated that “the risk of avian flu to the general public remains very low,” though authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
The UK government has intensified livestock surveillance on farms where avian influenza has been found, following concerns over the mass outbreaks in U.S. cattle. Officials stress that properly cooked poultry and dairy products remain safe to eat. However, all animal owners are urged to maintain high hygiene standards and report any signs of infection immediately.
