The United Kingdom’s Chief Veterinary Officer has announced the establishment of an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) covering the East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk, in response to recent detections of avian influenza in poultry, wild, and captive birds.
Effective immediately on December 13, bird keepers within the designated zone are legally required to implement enhanced biosecurity measures to protect their flocks and prevent further disease spread. The zone covers bird keepers of all flock sizes, with comprehensive protective protocols now mandatory.
Key Biosecurity Requirements
Bird keepers must now:
- Thoroughly cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, and equipment before and after contact with birds
- Minimise movement of people and vehicles around bird habitats
- Implement rigorous vermin control
- Continuously disinfect bird housing
- Maintain disinfectant stations at entry and exit points
- Prevent contact between domestic birds and wild birds
- Restrict poultry access to water sources and ensure enclosed living areas
Health and Safety Assurances
UK health authorities emphasise that the current risk to human health remains extremely low. The Food Standards Agency confirms that properly cooked poultry and eggs remain safe for consumption.
Official Statements
Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer, stressed the importance of immediate action: “All bird keepers in these areas must take enhanced biosecurity actions to prevent disease transmission.”
Aled Edwards from the Animal Plant Health Agency added, “Regardless of flock size, bird keepers must meet enhanced biosecurity requirements to protect against this highly infectious disease.”
Ongoing Monitoring
The prevention zone will remain in effect until further notice, with regular reviews conducted by government health and veterinary experts. The Animal and Plant Health Agency continues to monitor the situation closely and supports bird keepers through this challenging period.
Bird owners are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant, implement the specified biosecurity measures, and immediately report any suspected disease symptoms to authorities.
