Bird housing measures set to lift next week as avian flu risk levels subside

According to the latest scientific evidence and robust risk assessment by the relevant authorities, bird flu risk levels have eased off in recent weeks, which means poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be kept indoors unless they are in a Protection Zone.

The decision also means that from 18 April, eggs laid by hens with access to outdoor areas can return to being marketed as ‘Free-Range’ eggs.

The UK and Europe have experienced unprecedented avian flu outbreaks over the past year and a half, with over 330 cases confirmed across the country since late October 2021.

Although the risk of bird flu has been reduced to ‘medium’ for premises with poor biosecurity, the stringent biosecurity measures introduced as part of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) will remain in force as infection may still be circulating in the environment for several more weeks. The risk of bird flu on premises with good biosecurity remains assessed as low.

Guidance suggests those who intend to let their birds out should use the next few days to prepare their outside areas for the release of their birds. This will include cleansing and disinfection of hard surfaces, fencing off ponds or standing water and reintroduction of wild bird deterrents.

Dr Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Whilst the lifting of the mandatory housing measures will be welcome news to bird keepers, scrupulous biosecurity remains the most critical form of defence to help keep your birds safe.

“It is thanks to the hard work of all bird keepers and vets who have played their part in keeping flocks safe this winter that we are in a position to take this action. However, the unprecedented nature of this outbreak has proven it’s more important than ever for bird keepers to remain vigilant for signs of disease and maintain stringent standards of biosecurity.”

To prevent the risk of future outbreaks, all bird keepers should apply enhanced measures at all times, such as:

• cleansing and disinfecting clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
• reducing the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, minimising contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and using effective vermin control
• thoroughly cleansing and disinfecting housing on a continuous basis
• keeping fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and bird housing entry and exit points
• minimising direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds
• being vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, and seeking prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns.

As an additional precaution, Defra is also encouraging all keepers to register their flocks. This is a legal requirement for poultry keepers with 50 birds or more (poultry includes chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, pigeons (bred for meat), partridge, quail, guinea fowl and pheasants).

Registering flocks means the government will be able to contact bird keepers with information or action required should an outbreak happen near the premises. The government has recently announced a consultation on proposals to require all poultry keepers to officially register their birds (consultation closes at 23:45 on 31 May 2023).

According to the UKHSA, available evidence suggests the virus strain currently circulating in birds in the UK is unlikely to spread to people, with food standards bodies advising that avian flu poses a very low food safety risk to UK consumers. Moreover, there is no impact on the consumption of properly cooked poultry products, including eggs.

Bird keepers should report suspected cases in England to the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301, in Wales contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. In Northern Ireland contact DAERA on 0300 200 7840 or your local DAERA Direct Regional Office.

Members of the public are reminded not to touch dead wild birds and are encouraged to report such findings using the new online reporting system or by calling the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77).