Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
21 December 2024
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 continues to circulate in wild birds and poultry across England. We are seeing a rise in the number of cases, and we expect this to continue over the winter months.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed there have been 156 confirmed cases of bird flu in wild birds and 58 in poultry since October. This includes 22 cases in commercial flocks and 36 in backyard flocks.
The government has taken a number of steps to control the outbreak, including:
- Declaring an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across England
- Making it mandatory for all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors
- Implementing strict biosecurity measures on all poultry premises
- Carrying out surveillance and testing on wild birds and poultry
- Vaccinating poultry against bird flu
The government is working closely with the poultry industry and other stakeholders to control the outbreak and protect the health of our birds.
What can you do to help?
You can help to stop the spread of bird flu by:
- Following the guidance on biosecurity
- Keeping your birds indoors
- Not feeding wild birds
- Reporting any dead or sick birds to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
What are the risks to human health?
The risk to human health from bird flu is very low. However, it is important to take precautions to avoid infection. These include:
- Washing your hands thoroughly after handling poultry or poultry products
- Cooking poultry thoroughly
- Avoiding contact with sick or dead birds
More information
For more information on bird flu, please visit the APHA website.
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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