MORE bird flu cases have been confirmed in Hampshire and a protection zone has been put in place.

The Department for Environmental Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) have written to residents across Romsey, Eastleigh, Bishopstoke, Bishop's Waltham, and Hedge End following confirmed cases of bird flu.

In a letter, Defra has confirmed that the strain in this outbreak is a "low risk to human health", but is highly pathogenic for birds.

READ MORE: Bird flu outbreak confirmed in Bishop’s Waltham

This means birds can catch and spread the disease easily.

A 3km 'Protection Zone' and 10km 'Surveillance Zone' has been put in place around the premises.

All birds on the infected premises will be humanely culled.

Eastleigh, Bishopstoke, Bishop's Waltham, Romsey and Hedge End are inside the 10km Surveillance Zone, and Lower Upham, Upham and Horton Heath are inside the 3km Protection Zone.

SEE ALSO: Bird flu found near Romsey with 3km Protection Zone in place

Residents are being urged to report any dead birds they may come across including swans, geese and ducks, or gulls and birds of prey.

This follows outbreaks in December in the Meon Valley and Romsey. 

They can do this by ringing the Defra helpline on 03459 335577.

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