Map shows where bird flu prevention zone is declared in UK after cases rise
Map shows where bird flu prevention zone is declared in UK after cases rise
Share:
Most of the UK has been placed under an avian influenza prevention zone after cases show no sign of stopping. The new zone to tackle a rising number of bird flu cases was declared in England and Scotland after the spread among poultry has escalated. From noon today, all birdkeepers in the area must follow strict biosecurity measures to help prevent further outbreaks, the Chief Veterinary Officers from England and Scotland announced.
![[A map showing the avian influenza prevention zone declared in the UK.]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_237286526-25a2.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Measures include thorough cleaning of bird housing, personal workwear and minimising contact between wild and captive birds. Captive birds must be prevented from accessing bodies of water other animals use. All birdkeepers, including those with just a couple of pet birds or some in their backyard, must follow the prevention measures as they are a legal requirement.
![[A chicken poking its head out of a cage.]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_237286009-243a.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Christine Middlemiss, the UK Chief Veterinary Officer, said: ‘Given the continued increase in the number of bird flu cases across England, we are taking further action to try and prevent the further spread of disease. ‘I urge bird keepers to check which requirements apply to them, to continue to exercise robust biosecurity measures, remain alert for any signs of disease and report suspected disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.’.
The strictest level of measures – known as a Housing Order – is also in place in the north of England. East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk already have an active Housing Order declared in December.
