The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) for poultry and captive birds, introduced to help stop the spread of avian influenza (‘bird flu’), will be lifted today, 16 August at midday.
The enhanced biosecurity measures were brought in across Great Britain in November when there was a medium risk for some poultry premises. The measures have been vital in protecting flocks across the country from the virus which is circulating in wild birds. The government said the risk of avian influenza has now reduced to low for all poultry.
The UK has faced its largest ever outbreak of bird flu with over 130 cases confirmed across the country since late October. Scrupulous biosecurity is the most effective method of disease control available.
Whilst the risk in kept birds has reduced, all bird keepers should still follow enhanced measures at all times to prevent the risk of future outbreaks.
“Now we are in the summer months and experiencing higher temperatures, the risk to poultry has now been reduced across Great Britain and so the time is right to lift the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone,” said the UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss.
“This would not have been possible without the hard work of all bird keepers, who have upheld high biosecurity standards for many months. However, there are still localised areas of risk as we have seen recently, and therefore it’s vital that everyone keeps biosecurity and cleanliness at the forefront of their minds to keep their flocks safe.”
All poultry gatherings, including at fairs, shows and markets, remain banned, due to a large number of flocks mixing together and the risk posed by any infections spreading across the country.