Avian Influenza Prevention Zone housing measures to be lifted

More News

Mandatory housing measures for poultry and captive birds, which were introduced across various counties to prevent the spread of bird flu, will be lifted from Thursday 15 May.

The Chief Veterinary Officer confirmed on Monday, 12 May, that housing measures will be lifted as of 15 May. The latest risk assessment shows that the risk of avian influenza levels in wild birds and poultry has reduced. This means poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can now be kept outside.

The lifting of housing measures applies to all areas unless keepers are in a Protection Zone or Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Christine Middlemiss, said:

“Following a sustained period of reduced risk from avian influenza, we are now able to lift the mandatory housing measures in effect in various counties, which is testament to the hard work and vigilance of bird keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.

“While the lifting of mandatory housing measures will be welcomed by bird keepers, it is imperative that keepers continue to practice stringent biosecurity and that any suspicions of disease are reported to the Animal and Plant Health agency immediately.”

While this is excellent news, the NGO would like to remind all poultry and bird keepers that good biosecurity is the best way to avoid future cases of avian influenza. With that in mind, we would urge everyone to continue with the highest levels of biosecurity possible.

ENDS

Note to Editors: