Avian influenza is continuing its spread across the country, with several new cases confirmed this week.
Six new cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in England over the past few days, bringing the total number of cases in England to 29 as of Tuesday 7th December 2021.
The new outbreaks have been found in premises across the country, including two cases found in Thirsk, Hambleton, North Yorkshire on 2nd and 5th December.
In all cases the birds on site have been humanely culled and 3km Protection Zones and 10km Surveillance Zones have been put in place around all of the affected premises to limit the risk of the disease spreading.
The new bird flu outbreaks reinforce the importance of complying with the UK-wide avian influenza housing order to help protect poultry and captive birds.
Since November 29 it has been a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors and to follow strict biosecurity measures in order to limit the spread of the disease.
Avian Influenza commonly circulates in the winter months, associated with the migratory season where wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe can carry the disease.
All bird keepers should keep a close watch on their flock for signs of the disease and maintain maintain good biosecurity at all times. Bird keepers should report suspicion of disease in England to Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301, in Wales contact 0300 303 8268.
For up to date information on avian influenza, click here to visit the DEFRA website.
