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Fresh warning to bird keepers over avian flu
The UK is currently facing its largest-ever bird flu outbreak.

Restrictions to remain in place as chief vet reiterates call for biosecurity. 

The UK's chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss has reiterated her call to all poultry keepers not to be complacent about avian flu and to continue to follow the urgent biosecurity measures to protect their flocks.

The UK is currently facing its largest-ever bird flu outbreak, with some 100 cases confirmed across the country since November 2021. To prevent the further spread of this disease, the Government introduced new housing regulations that make it a legal requirement to keep birds indoors and for them to follow strict biosecurity measures.

In a statement, updated to reflect the latest situation, Ms Middlemiss reminds poultry keepers that while the source of infection comes from migratory wild birds, ‘those failing to implement these measures risk infecting their own flocks by walking the virus into their holdings.’

The statement adds that keepers should continue to follow the strict biosecurity measures that are in place to limit the spread of and eradicate the disease.

“We have taken swift action to limit the spread of the disease, including introducing housing measures. However we are still seeing a number of bird flu cases both on commercial farms and in backyard birds right across the country,” Ms Middlemiss said.

“Many poultry keepers have excellent biosecurity standards but the number of cases we are seeing suggests that not enough is being done to keep bird flu out. Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands you must take action now to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.

She added: “The avian flu outbreak has not gone away and implementing scrupulous biosecurity remains absolutely critical. You must continue to regularly clean and disinfect your footwear and clothes before entering enclosures, stop your birds mixing with any wild birds and only allow visitors that are strictly necessary.

"It is your actions that will help keep your birds safe.”

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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.