Bird Flu (Avian influenza): Latest Situation in England
16th January 2025
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an update on the latest situation regarding bird flu (avian influenza) in England.
Current Situation
As of 16th January 2025, there have been 155 confirmed cases of bird flu in England in poultry and captive birds since October 2022. The affected areas are mainly in the East and South East of England.
- 120 cases in poultry
- 35 cases in captive birds
No human cases of bird flu have been reported in the UK.
Enhanced Surveillance
The UKHSA is continuing to carry out enhanced surveillance for bird flu in England. This includes:
- Increased monitoring of poultry and captive birds
- Active surveillance in wild birds
- Targeted testing of poultry and captive birds
Control Measures
Control measures are in place to prevent the spread of bird flu. These include:
- Movement restrictions on poultry and captive birds
- Isolation of infected premises
- Culling of infected birds
- Disinfection of premises
Public Health Advice
The risk to human health from bird flu is very low. However, the UKHSA advises the public to:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
- Do not touch bird feathers or droppings
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling birds or their droppings
- Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating them
Vaccination Programme
The UK government has announced plans to roll out a vaccination programme for poultry in England. The programme is expected to start in the coming weeks.
Further Information
For more information on bird flu, please visit the UKHSA website: www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu
Additional Information
Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect both domestic and wild birds. It can cause severe illness and death in birds.
The virus can be spread through contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces.
Humans can become infected with bird flu through close contact with infected birds or their droppings. However, human cases are rare and typically occur in people who have direct contact with infected birds.
Symptoms of bird flu in humans can include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, bird flu can lead to pneumonia and other complications.
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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