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Protection zone in place after bird flu case confirmed in Lewis

Getty Images A close up of a hen. The bird's feathers are red and it has a pink comb and wattles. The hen is standing in an open, grassy area and there are others hens in the background.Getty Images
People who keep poultry have been asked to monitor their animals for signs of infection

A case of bird flu has been confirmed on a premises in the Western Isles.

A two-mile (3km) protection zone has been put in place around the property in Ness, in Lewis, as well as a six-mile (10km) surveillance zone.

Local authority, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, and NHS Western Isles have urged the public to follow Scottish government guidance.

Avian flu can be fatal to birds and other animals, but the virus does not pass easily from animals to humans.

The case in Ness was confirmed on Friday.

The Scottish government said poultry keepers in the zones should inspect their animals for infection and report any signs of flu to their vet, local Animal and Plant Health Agency or 0300 600 703.

They have also been asked to keep a record of people visiting their premises.