Government Update – Avian influenza prevention zone declared in south-west England

A number of avian influenza cases in poultry and wild and captive birds has been detected across the region, and it is hoped that the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) will reduce the risk of further outbreaks of the disease occurring.

It is now a legal requirement for all bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks, of whatever type or size. Backyard owners with small numbers of poultry including chickens, ducks and geese must take steps to limit the risk of the disease spreading to their animals.

Additionally, keepers with more than 500 birds will need to restrict access for non-essential people on their sites, workers will need to change clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures and site vehicles will need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

A map of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone is available on the government’s website.

The risk to public health from the virus is very low and properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

Please do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find, but report them to Defra on 03459 33 55 77