Avian Influenza Prevention Zone Declared Across Great Britain
A new Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been officially declared across Great Britain, making strict biosecurity measures a legal must for all bird keepers. This move comes amid a surge in bird flu cases hitting wild and commercial birds hard.
Bird Flu Cases Surge: What You Need to Know
The Chief Veterinary Officers of England, Scotland, and Wales revealed that Great Britain is facing its biggest ever outbreak of avian influenza. Since October 2021, 190 cases have been confirmed, with over 30 new infections this month alone. The East of England is a hotspot, alongside outbreaks reported in the South West and wild birds across the country.
Avian flu spreads as migratory wild birds arrive from mainland Europe during winter, posing a serious threat to poultry and captive birds. Bird keepers must now boost hygiene and security to keep their flocks safe.
Strict Rules Now in Force for Bird Keepers
As of midday on Monday 17 October, all bird keepers in Great Britain face legal obligations to:
- Keep free-ranging birds within fenced areas, including fencing off ponds, watercourses, and standing water.
- Clean and disinfect footwear regularly and maintain tidy bird areas.
- Limit movement into and out of bird enclosures to reduce infection risk.
- Disinfect concrete areas and fence off wet or boggy ground.
- Keep domestic ducks and geese separate from other poultry.
- Make bird areas uninviting to wild birds by netting ponds and removing wild bird food sources.
- Feed and water birds in enclosed spaces to deter wild birds.
Bird keepers with more than 500 birds must restrict non-essential visitors, require workers to change clothes and footwear, and ensure vehicles are regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Official Advice and Public Safety
The UK Health Security Agency assures the public the risk to human health is very low. The Food Standards Agency confirms properly cooked poultry and eggs remain safe to eat. However, if you spot dead wild birds, don’t touch them unless wearing protective clothing. Local authorities will safely dispose of carcasses found on public land.
“Bird keepers have faced the largest ever outbreak of avian flu this year, and with winter comes increased risk as migratory birds return to the UK,” said the Chief Veterinary Officers for England, Scotland, and Wales. “Scrupulous biosecurity is the best defence. We’ve declared an AIPZ to ensure all bird keepers take necessary precautions to stop the spread.”
The prevention zone will remain in place until further notice, with regular reviews based on the latest scientific advice. Bird keepers and the public should stay updated and report any suspicions of disease to APHA on 03000 200 301.
For the latest guidance and advice on bird flu safety measures, visit gov.uk/avian-influenza.
