Bird flu prevention zone in place across England

A bird flu prevention zone enforcing strict hygiene standards around birds has been declared for the whole of England.

The rising number of cases and the risk to wildlife led to the decision, the government said.

Even stricter measures, requiring all birds to be housed, are being enforced in some counties.

The risk to human health remains low, with chicken and eggs safe to eat if properly cooked.

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone across England applies to all keepers of birds, be they pets or commercial flocks.

It means their owners have to conduct enhanced biosecurity measures, including:

It will be in place from noon on Saturday until further notice, the government said.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss 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.”

A housing order in the north of England is being extended to include York and North Yorkshire from Monday, with a new order for Shropshire also being put in place then after an outbreak in the county.

The current order in the north of England covers the East Riding of Yorkshire, Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.

A 3km protection zone is put in place around any infected premises, also requiring all birds to be housed.