Two further cases of avian influenza in England

Defra has confirmed HPAI H5N1 at a premises near Salwick, Flyde in Lancashire, and another premises near Leeming Bar, Hambleton, North Yorkshire.

Both premises have a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone in place.

Since the first case during this outbreak on 26^th October, a total of seven cases of HPAI H5N1 have been confirmed in Great Britain, including five in England, one in Scotland and one in Wales.

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone remains in place across Great Britain, meaning all bird keepers are required by law to take a range of biosecurity precautions. Gatherings of poultry, galliforme and anseriforme birds are also banned.

Biosecurity precautions required under the AIPZ include:

• Keeping free-ranging birds in fenced areas to minimise contact with wild birds, neighbouring poultry or captive birds
• Inspecting outdoor areas, removing wild bird contaminants like faeces, feathers and wild bird carcases
• Fencing off or put netting over areas of standing water or ponds
• Providing feed and water undercover, so wild birds can’t access it
• Making your premises unattractive to wild birds. Use bird scarers, foils or streamers
• Keeping ducks and geese separate from other poultry
• Storing bedding under cover to reduce the risk of contamination
• Cleaning and disinfecting footwear before and after tending to your birds. If you own more than 50 birds, place foot dips containing government approved disinfectant at all entry and exit points
• Cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces regularly
• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment and vehicles to avoid disease spread between premises
• Minimising the movement of people, vehicles and equipment to and from bird areas and keep records of movements
• Keeping records of poultry, captive bird and egg movements
• Maintaining buildings that house birds to prevent water ingress
• Ensuring pest control is effective.

Keepers must also keep a close watch on birds for any signs of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns. Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact to the local Field Services Office.

Biosecurity information is available on gov.uk for England, Scotland and Wales.