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Bird flu has been found in a flock of wild birds, the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs says.

A total of 17 cases were discovered in Dorset carrying a similar strain to H5N6 which infected birds across Europe, but different to the one which got to people in China last year.

The Food Standards Agency has said the disease poses no safety risk to UK consumers and Public Health England advise the risk of people catching it is very low.

Places which keep birds like Slimbridge Wetland Centre, which is at its best in winter for the different species that can be seen there, have been asked to remain vigilant and report any suspected outbreaks of bird flu.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Nigel Gibbens, said: "This is the first time avian flu has been identified in the UK this winter and while the disease does not represent a threat to the public, it is highly infectious and deadly to birds.

"As the virus has been circulating across Europe, this finding has not come as a surprise.

"But it is vital that anyone who keeps birds - whether a few in a back garden or thousands on a farm - is vigilant for any signs of disease, reports suspect disease to APHA and maintains good biosecurity to reduce the risk of their birds becoming infected."

Defra has introduced an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone which applies to everyone who keeps poultry or captive birds in specific areas of South Dorset.

Bird keepers can sign up for disease alerts and should increase their bio-security measures.

Bird flu is spread by direct contact between birds and through contamination in the environment, for example in droppings. This means wild species carrying the disease can infect domestic poultry.

The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, which owns Slimbridge has said people can help prevent the spread of bird flu by washing their hands, changing footwear and cleaning equipment such as car tyres.

There are disinfectant mats at entrances and exits at the site, information sheets for visitors and hand disinfectants.

A range of other measures include vehicle movements on and off reserves being restricted and equipment being sprayed down.