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Avian influenza confirmed in Devon
There have been several cases of HPAI H5N8 in poultry and non-poultry across ENgland in recent weeks. 

A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been declared around the premises.

A protection zone has been placed around a premises in Exmouth, Devon, after the confirmation of avian influenza in backyard poultry.

The discovery has been confirmed by government officials as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N8.

An update from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on Wednesday (30 December) reads: 'Highly pathogenic (H5N8) avian influenza has been confirmed in backyard poultry at a premises near Exmouth, East Devon, Devon. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone have been declared.'

This is the eleventh case HPAI H5N8 in poultry in England. There have also been three recent cases of H5N8 in other captive birds and one case at a premises in Orkney, Scotland. Multiple species of wild birds have also tested positive for the disease in recent weeks.

All bird keepers in England are required by law to take a range of biosecurity precautions, including housing their birds, except in very specific circumstances.
These housing measures build on the strengthened biosecurity regulations that were introduced as part of the Avian Influenza Protection Zone (AIPZ) on 11 November.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.