MORE than 40,000 birds are to be culled after a mild strain of the H5N1 bird flu virus was found in chickens at a Scottish farm.

A temporary control zone of just over half a mile has been put in place around premises in Dunfermline, Fife.

Tests results have now confirmed the strain is less serious than other forms of the highly contagious virus that has seen outbreak in Asia and north Africa

The birds are to be culled humanely tomorrow and poultry producers have been urged to be vigilant following the suspected case.

But the risk to human health in this case is considered “very low”, according to Health Protection Scotland.

Chief veterinary officer Sheila Voas said: "All the evidence so far suggests we ar edealing with a very mild form of H5N1 avian influenza, which is not the same as the strain that has been causing problems in Asia and north Africa.

"Further tests are currently being carried out to confirm this, but, in the meantime, we are taking no chances."

She added that 'robust' procedures have already been put in place and consumers should not be concerned about eating eggs or poultry. and to ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises.”

It comes after a number of cases of avian influenza across Europe in recent months.

Restrictions in the Fife control zone have been imposed, including on the movement of poultry, carcasses, eggs, used poultry litter and manure and restrictions on bird gatherings.

Rita Botto, head veterinarian of Food Standards Scotland said: “On the basis of current scientific evidence, Food Standards Scotland’s advice is that bird flu does not pose a food safety risk for UK consumers.”

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: “Livestock owners and the general public should be assured that we are doing everything we can to control and prevent the spread of the disease.

“Any poultry producers who are concerned should immediately seek veterinary advice.”

Dr Jim McMenamin, consultant epidemiologist and respiratory infection lead for Health Protection Scotland said: “Based on what we know about this strain of avian influenza and the actions that have been taken, the risk to human health in this case is considered very low.

“Health Protection Scotland continues to work closely with Animal Health throughout this investigation.”

First minister Nicola Sturgeon, speaking following a visit to a school in Glenrothes, Fife, said: “We’re taking all appropriate precautionary steps.

“There are still tests being undertaken to identify the precise strain of bird flu. But the early view is that this is a low-pathogenic, low-severity strain.

“Nevertheless, there will be a humane cull of the birds in question. A one kilometre exclusion zone has been put in place so that we are able to limit any potential spread.

“But it’s important to stress that the risk to human health is very, very low indeed. But we’ll continue to take all of the appropriate steps to make sure that we contain this case.”

“Obviously the farming industry will be concerned and that’s why it’s important we’re giving them the information and the advice they need to know there’s no need at this stage for any undue concern.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and Fife MSP Willie Rennie said: “Our thoughts are with the farmer who has already been affected by this outbreak. This will come as a hammer blow to their business.

“I have tabled a question in parliament to enable the minister to make a statement on Tuesday.

He said it was important answers were provided over how the outbreak emerged, including where the chickens had come from.

“Farmers across the country will also want to be reassured that the bio-security arrangements which are in place are robust and hear what plans there are to strengthen them.”