Defra lifts avian flu prevention zone

The mandatory requirement for bird keepers to practice enhanced biosecurity to protect against avian influenza will be lifted from midday today (16^th August).

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was introduced in November when there was a medium risk of AI for some poultry premises. The risk has now reduced to low for all poultry and as a result the AIPZ will be lifted.

There have been over 130 confirmed cases of AI across the UK since late October 2021 – making it the largest avian flu outbreak the UK has ever faced.

Cases have continued to appear in August, with highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 confirmed at a premises near Ashburton, Devon; two premises near Cullompton, mid Devon; and a second premises near Tiverton.

Bird keepers are advised to continue using enhanced biosecurity at all times to prevent the risk of future outbreaks.

UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “Now we are in the summer months and experiencing higher temperatures, the risk to poultry has now been reduced across Great Britain and so the time is right to lift the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone.

“This would not have been possible without the hard work of all bird keepers, who have upheld high biosecurity standards for many months. However, there are still localised areas of risk as we have seen recently, and therefore it’s vital that everyone keeps biosecurity and cleanliness at the forefront of their minds to keep their flocks safe.”

All poultry gatherings, including at fairs, shows and markets, remain banned, due to a large number of flocks mixing together and the risk posed by any infections spreading across the country.

For biosecurity advice visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#biosecurity