Avian Influenza update – prevention zone declared across the country

Following an increase in the number of detections of avian influenza (bird flu) in wild birds and on commercial premises, the Chief Veterinary Officers from England, Scotland and Wales have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across Great Britain to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading amongst poultry and captive birds.

It is now a legal requirement for all bird keepers in Great Britain to follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks from the threat of avian flu.

We would like to remind bird keepers, whether you have pets or commercial flocks, to keep a close watch on your birds for signs of disease and to maintain good biosecurity.

Please do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick wild birds that you find. You should call the DEFRA helpline on 03459 33 55 77 if you find:

• One or more dead bird of prey or owl
• Three or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks)
• Five or more dead birds of any species

If dead wild birds are not needed for Avian Influenza surveillance purposes, there is advice for members of the public to follow for the disposal of dead garden birds.

If you suspect any type of Avian Influenza in poultry or captive birds, you must report it immediately by calling the DEFRA Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.