The UK’s worst ever outbreak of avian influenza has struck four new premises in Devon in the past week, with two commercial poultry premises and two backyard flocks affected.
On 5 August highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in captive birds near Ashburton, Devon.
On 7 August highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed at a premises near Cullompton, Devon.
On 8 August highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was suspected at a second premises near Cullompton. A 3km Temporary Control Zone A and 10km Temporary Control Zone B were put in place around the premises. Following official testing, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 9 August 2022. The Temporary Control Zones were revoked and replaced by a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone.
On 10 August highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed at a second premises near Tiverton, Devon.
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains in force across Great Britain until further notice, with only the housing measures component being lifted. This means, while birds are allowed to range outside, poultry keepers must continue to take effective and precautionary biosecurity measures until further notice.