A National Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been declared for the whole of England.

This is due to the second confirmed finding of the highly pathogenic H5N6 bird flu in wild birds in Warwickshire, following the finding in Dorset earlier this month (January 2018). Tests have shown both cases are closely related to the H6N6 strain circulating in wild birds across Europe in recent months.

The prevention zone means it is mandatory for all captive bird keepers in England to put enhanced biosecurity measures in place. Further information can be found on here. This Zone will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review by DEFRA. It is vital that anyone who keeps birds is vigilant. 

All poultry keepers should:

• minimise movement in and out of bird enclosures
• clean footwear before and after visiting birds, using a Government approved disinfectant at entrances and exits
• clean and disinfect vehicles and equipment that have come into contact with poultry
• keep areas where birds live clean and tidy, and regularly disinfect hard surfaces such as paths and walkways
• humanely control rats and mice
• place birds’ food and water in fully enclosed areas protected from wild birds, and remove any spilled feed regularly
• keep birds separate from wildlife and wild waterfowl by putting suitable fencing around outdoor areas they access
• keep a close watch on birds for any signs of disease and report any unexplained deaths to your vet

If you have any questions, please contact one of our vets or phone 01392 872932.

18th January 2018.