Bird flu housing measures expand after rise in cases

From Sunday 16 February, birdkeepers in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Cheshire, Merseyside, and Lancashire must house their birds in response to rising cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in both wild and kept birds.

The avian influenza prevention zone (AIPZ), which has already been in place across several regions including the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk, has been extended to reduce the risk of further outbreaks.

The AIPZ enforces strict biosecurity measures, but mandatory housing now applies in additional areas. Keepers must house all their poultry, regardless of whether they have commercial flocks or just a few birds at home.

See also: Bird gatherings banned as bird flu spreads

UK chief veterinary officer, Christine Middlemiss, said: “Following the continued increasing number of bird flu cases across England, particularly in areas of concentrated poultry farming, we are now extending housing measures further.

“Birdkeepers are reminded to continue remaining vigilant to any signs of disease, check which requirements apply to them while continuing to exercise robust biosecurity measures, and ensure you report suspected disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”

Mandatory housing measures for all kept birds and poultry will also come into force across Northern Ireland from 12.01am on Monday 17 February 2025.

In addition, a ban on gatherings of galliformes (including pheasants, partridges, quail, chickens, turkeys, guinea fowl), anseriformes (including ducks, geese, swans) and poultry will be implemented in conjunction with the housing order.

Irish response

The measures will mirror those introduced in Ireland, where similar restrictions will apply from the same date, both north and south of the border.

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs minister Andrew Muir said: “I have taken the decision to introduce housing measures for all poultry and captive birds and a ban on certain bird gatherings.

“I have been in discussions with my counterpart in Ireland – DAFM Minister Martin Heydon and I welcome the announcement that a similar order is coming into effect in Ireland. Officials will continue to remain in close contact as both orders are implemented.”

The government has also introduced a ban on gatherings of poultry across England, Wales, and Scotland, including bird fairs, markets, and exhibitions, as the bird flu situation continues to worsen.

The ban affects all species of poultry, including ducks, geese, turkeys, chickens, and game birds.

The measures are essential to protect flocks from avian influenza, and keepers must take immediate steps to prevent further spread.

The AIPZs will remain in place until further notice, with regular reviews to monitor and manage the risks posed by the disease.

Keepers are encouraged to take action to prevent bird flu spreading, being vigilant for signs of disease and reporting any that are noticed to keep birds safe.