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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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Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced across Wales

News Story 1
 An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been introduced across Wales.

From 30 January, all bird keepers in Wales must implement strict biosecurity measures to protect poultry and captive birds. This includes a mandatory self-assessment checklist.

The Animal & Plant Health Agency has already introduced AIPZs in Scotland and England, with mandatory housing in some parts of England. The avian influenza interactive map reveals where restrictions are in place, with further information about Wales' AIPZ here. 

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Applications open for RCVS Fellowship

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has opened applications for veterinary surgeons to join the RCVS Fellowship.

The RCVS Fellowship is a learned society which works to advance veterinary standards and promote scientific excellence.

Veterinary surgeons can enter the RCVS Fellowship through three routes, each with different criteria. This enables people with a range of expertise and experience to join the society.

The routes are: Meritorious Contributions to Clinical Practice, Meritorious Contributions to Knowledge and Meritorious Contributions to the Profession.

Applicants must share a summary of their contributions to the profession, including examples of significant works produced throughout their career. The application will then be assessed by a panel of judges against a set of criteria.

Veterinary surgeons have until 4pm on Friday, 14 March to submit applications. More information, including requirements and guidance can be found here.