Further avian influenza housing measures introduced
Bird keepers across the UK must continue to follow enhanced biosecurity.
More avian influenza housing measures have been introduced in the north of England, following increased findings of avian influenza among wild birds.
As of 7 April, bird keepers in Cumbria, County Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside must now house any kept birds. They must also continue following the strictest biosecurity measures, as required by the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ).
The four counties join East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Shropshire, York, North Yorkshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire in maintaining these avian influenza housing measures. Bird keepers across Northern Ireland must also follow these rules.
Mandatory housing also applies to bird keepers within a 3km Protection Zone or 3km Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone around an infected premises.
Bird keepers across all of the UK must continue to follow the enhanced biosecurity which is mandated by AIPZs. This includes keepers of pet birds, commercial flocks or backyard flocks.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) says that the extended measures are necessary to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks.
It states that all measures are introduced in a phased or escalating manner proportionate to the risk in the area. They will remain in force until further notice, however the government is conducting regular reviews.
Ele Brown, UK deputy chief veterinary officer, said: “Due to the increasing number of bird flu cases in the north of England, particularly in regions with high-density poultry farming, we are extending housing measures to Cumbria, Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside.
“Bird keepers are urged to stay alert for any signs of disease, maintain strict biosecurity practices, and report any suspected cases of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”
Bird keepers should consult Defra’s map to see if they are within a bird flu disease zone. New bird keepers must also register within one month of keeping birds at any premises.
Image © Shutterstock
Joanne Webster, a professor of parasitic diseases at the RVC, has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).
