Following detections of avian influenza in poultry, wild and captive birds across the East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, the UK’s chief veterinary officer has declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across the region to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease.
This means that from 13 December it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers within the zone to follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks, of whatever type or size. A map of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone is available on gov.uk.
The introduction of an AIPZ follows the recent increase in cases of bird flu in poultry and other captive birds in the area and increased reports of mass mortality in wild birds.
The AIPZ now in force does not include a requirement to house birds, unless you are also in a 3km Protection Zone. However, this is being kept under constant review. Further disease control measures will be based on the latest scientific evidence and veterinary advice.
UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “Following a number of detections of avian influenza we have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone across the East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. This means that all bird keepers in these areas must take enhanced biosecurity actions now to both help prevent disease getting in to flocks and it stop it spreading any further.”
Bird keepers must exercise robust biosecurity measures, remain alert for any signs of disease and report suspected disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.