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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 16th December 2024
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Prevention zone declared after avian flu outbreak
Seven cases have been confirmed since the current outbreak began in November.
Bird keepers within the zone must follow strict biosecurity measures.

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been declared to reduce the risk of the disease spreading following an outbreak of cases.

The zone applies to the East Riding of Yorkshire, the City of Kingston upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Regardless of the size of their flock, all bird keepers within the zone most follow strict biosecurity measures.

The requirements that keepers must follow include preventing access by poultry to ponds and watercourses, ensuring all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds, and cleansing and disinfecting clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles both before and after contact with poultry and captive birds.

However, it is not compulsory for birds to be housed, unless they are within a 3km Protection Zones around an affected premises.

The AIPZ has been introduced following an outbreak of cases of avian flu detected in commercial poultry and captive birds, as well as a rise in reports of mass mortality in wild birds. The zone will be reviewed regularly and remain in place until further notice.

Aled Edwards, head of England field delivery at the Animal Plant Health Agency, said: “The introduction of an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone means regardless of the number of birds you keep, you are required to meet enhanced biosecurity requirements to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.

“Scientists, vets and field teams from the Animal and Plant Health Agency are working hard to help tackle the spread of avian influenza and ensure bird keepers are kept up to date and supported.”

Clinical signs of avian flu infection must be reported in England to the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. Cases in Wales should be reported on 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, the local Field Services Office must be contacted.

A full list of the requirements for bird keepers in the AIPZ can be downloaded here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.