Three more counties have joined the south west in being declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) - as the risk level to poultry with poor biosecurity has been increased to medium across the country.
It is now a legal requirement for all bird keepers in Suffolk, Norfolk and parts of Essex to follow strict biosecurity measures to help stop the spread of bird flu.
Last month Cornwall, Devon and parts of Somerset were placed in an AIPZ.
The UK has faced its largest ever outbreak of bird flu with more than 150 cases confirmed across the country since late October 2021. Scrupulous biosecurity is the most effective method of disease control available.
Defra says that the regional AIPZs will remain in place until further notice.
The wild bird risk across Great Britain is maintained at medium and the risk to poultry with stringent biosecurity is maintained at low.
However, the risk to poultry with poor biosecurity has been increased to medium, in light of the increased number of infected premises observed during September and the distance of some of these, as well as wild bird cases, from the coast.
Dr Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s chief veterinary officer, said: "We are seeing a growing number of bird flu cases on commercial farms and in backyard birds across the country driven by high levels of disease within wild birds.
"Unfortunately we expect the number of cases to continue to rise over the coming months as migratory birds return to the UK, bringing with them further risk of disease that can spread into our kept flocks.
"We’re taking action already by implementing regional Avian Influenza Prevention Zones in the worst-affected areas, but it is important that all bird keepers – wherever they are in the country – ensure that cleanliness and hygiene are at the forefront of their minds to keep their flocks safe and limit the impact of the outbreak."
Defra advises that all bird keepers keep a close watch on them for signs of disease and maintain good biosecurity at all times. Any concerns about the health of birds should be relayed to a vet immediately.
It is a legal requirement for bird keepers in the regional AIPZ to take these biosecurity measures:
- cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
- reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective vermin control
- keep records of mortality, movement of poultry and poultry products and any changes in production
- thoroughly clean and disinfect housing on a continuous basis
- keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points
- minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds
- prevent access by poultry to ponds and watercourses and ensure that birds are kept in fenced or enclosed areas
Avian influenza (bird flu) is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.
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