Following to an increasing number of bird flu cases in the north of England, measures are being extended requiring the housing of all poultry and kept birds in Cumbria, County Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside.
From one minute past midnight on Monday 7th April, keepers of Captive Bird in Cumbria must house their birds following a rise in the number of cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (’bird flu’) in wild birds and new cases in poultry and kept birds.
Avian Influenza housing measures are being extended in these areas across the north of England to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease.
As well as housing their birds, keepers must continue to follow the strictest biosecurity as required by the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone.
The extension is in addition to measures already in place across East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Shropshire, York, North Yorkshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire. In addition to across the whole of Northern Ireland.
The Avian Influenza housing measures apply to all bird keepers whether pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a garden.
UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, Ele Brown said: “Due to the increasing number of bird flu cases in the north of England, particularly in regions with high-density poultry farming, we are extending housing measures to Cumbria, Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside.”
“Bird keepers are urged to stay alert for any signs of disease, maintain strict biosecurity practices, and report any suspected cases of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”
The prevention measures are being introduced in a phased and escalating manner proportionate to the risk to an area.
The Avian Influenza housing measures will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza.
Check full details of the restrictions at gov.uk/birdflu and for further advice and information.
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