England confirms AI as H6 strain

Further laboratory tests following a routine veterinary investigation at two poultry premises in East Anglia, England have now confirmed that the avian influenza virus present is H6N1, according to an article on www.DEFRA.gov.uk.

The H6 virus type has been isolated in domestic poultry and wild birds in Europe over the last few years.

Animal Health began the investigation late on Feb. 24 and is waiting for further laboratory tests to determine whether the virus is high or low pathogenicity, and these results are not expected for some days.

Restrictions remain in place on the premises while the investigation continues. No further precautionary restrictions are considered necessary in the area at present.