The government has confirmed bird flu has been found at a site in Kent.

As a result, a 3km control zone has been set up around the premises close to Newington near Sittingbourne.

Those who own birds in this vicinity will have to monitor and safely house them. The animals cannot be moved elsewhere during this time.

People are also required to keep a record of visitors and whether they come into contact with any of the birds.

Hen Weekend Chicken Boarding boss Katriona Shovlin told her customers she will be temporarily shut.

Her special hotel is in Susans Lane near Upchurch, which is just within the controlled zone, which covers Lower Halstow, Bobbing and Funton.

On Facebook, she said: “This means, by law, all poultry must be housed or kept fully enclosed, and no birds can move on or off the premises until restrictions are lifted by APHA (the Animal and Plant Health Agency).

“Because of this, Hen Weekend will be temporarily closed for new arrivals and departures.

“Please rest assured that all hens currently boarding with us are safe, secure, and being cared for to the highest standard under the new rules and biosecurity at the highest level.

“We’ll continue to follow all government guidance and keep everyone updated as soon as we’re allowed to reopen.”

Chief Veterinary Officer Gordon Hickman announced the new measures at 7pm yesterday (October 27).

It comes after bird flu, also known as avian influenza, was found in “other captive birds” in the area.

This refers to birds that are kept as pets or for competitions and excludes those raised for meat, eggs or other products.

While the disease primarily affects birds, some strains can spread to humans through close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.

People could get a range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe respiratory disease.

The APHA wouldn’t disclose the exact location or how many birds had contracted the disease when approached by KentOnline.

A spokesperson added: “An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) with mandatory biosecurity measures is also in force across Great Britain.

“All bird keepers must follow the stringent biosecurity measures in addition to following any protection/surveillance zone restrictions in their area to prevent future outbreaks.”

It is the 10th recorded case of bird flu in the UK this year. Already this month, protection zones have been put in place in Yorkshire, Cumbria, Suffolk and Lancashire.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises that bird flu is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has said bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.