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Further avian flu cases confirmed
A UK-wide avian flu housing order was announced in November.
Chief vet issues urgent plea for biosecurity action. 

Further outbreaks of avian flu have been confirmed in Lincolnshire and Hampshire.

The outbreaks come as the UK faces its largest outbreak ever of avian flu, with more than 60 cases confirmed since the beginning of November. 

The most recent outbreak was identified at premises near Romsey, Test Valley.  Cases were also confirmed over the festive period in King’s Lynn, West Norfolk and East Lindsey.

Last week, the UK’s chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss called on poultry keepers to undertake the urgent biosecurity measures needed to keep their birds safe and prevent the further spread of the disease. 

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

“Implementing scrupulous biosecurity has never been more critical. You must 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.”

A UK-wide avian flu housing order was announced in November, making it a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep their flocks indoors. 

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Voting opens for BEVA Council

News Story 1
 Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.

There are five candidates standing for four available places on Council. They are:

  • Alexandre Triguino
  • Angela Jones
  • Beth Bryant
  • Holly Rees
  • Hugh Somerville
Full profiles for each candidate can be found on the BEVA website

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'