Avian flu prevention zone now in force across Wales
30th January 2025
Welsh poultry farmers urged not to be complacent as AIPZ introduced in response to the growing threat of avian flu.
An avian flu prevention zone (AIPZ) is now in force across the whole of Wales, with mandatory biosecurity as of 00.01 30th January.
Keepers with more than 500 birds must take extra biosecurity measures, including limiting access to non-essential people, changing clothing and footwear before entering premises with birds and cleaning and disinfecting vehicles.
All bird keepers in Wales are also required to complete a mandatory biosecurity self-assessment checklist.
There have been no avian flu cases in Wales so far this season, but the introduction of the AIPZ recognises the increased risk to Welsh flocks.
AIPZs are already in force in Scotland and England, and parts of England are under a compulsory housing order.
READ MORE: Avian influenza prevention zone declared in four counties
READ MORE: Effective biosecurity helps protect flocks against new outbreaks of avian flu
Worsening disease picture
NFU Cymru is urging all poultry keepers in Wales to practise high levels of on-farm biosecurity and to prevent contact with wild birds.
NFU Cymru Poultry chairman Richard Williams said: “Unfortunately the UK poultry industry is all too familiar with the devastating impact that AI can have on our flocks and our businesses in recent years.
“Given the worsening disease picture in other parts of the UK this season, it is absolutely imperative that poultry keepers – whether that’s commercial businesses or small backyard flocks – do all they can to protect our birds from this disease.
“The announcement of an all-Wales AIPZ recognises the increased risk to Welsh flocks.”
There have been 24 outbreaks of avian flu H5N1 in birds in England since 17th November 2024, and one case in Scotland, as well as one case of H5N5 in England.
A rare human case of the virus was also recently confirmed in a person in the West Midlands.
Read more poultry news.
