Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
Published 29 January 2025 21:24
- Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) declared across England
- Poultry keepers urged to follow strict biosecurity measures
- Public Health England (PHE) advises that the risk to human health is very low
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across England following the confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in captive birds in Lincolnshire.
The AIPZ means that all poultry and captive birds in England must be kept indoors and that poultry keepers must follow strict biosecurity measures to help prevent the spread of the disease.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has advised that bird flu does not pose a food safety risk for consumers. Poultry meat, eggs and other poultry products are safe to eat.
Public Health England (PHE) has advised that the risk to human health from avian flu is very low. However, people are advised not to touch or pick up dead or sick birds and to report any findings to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.
What is avian flu?
Avian flu is a viral disease that can affect both domestic and wild birds. It is caused by type A influenza viruses, which are highly contagious.
What are the symptoms of avian flu?
Symptoms of avian flu in birds can include:
- Respiratory problems, such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing
- Swelling and redness of the head, neck, and eyelids
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea
- Sudden death
How is avian flu spread?
Avian flu is spread through contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids. It can be spread through direct contact, or through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
What are the risks to human health?
The risk to human health from avian flu is very low. However, people who work with poultry or who come into contact with infected birds should take precautions to avoid infection.
What should I do if I find a dead or sick bird?
If you find a dead or sick bird, do not touch it or pick it up. Report it to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.
What are the control measures in place?
The following control measures are in place to help prevent the spread of avian flu:
- An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been declared across England, meaning that all poultry and captive birds must be kept indoors
- Poultry keepers must follow strict biosecurity measures, such as disinfecting footwear and equipment, and keeping poultry away from other animals and wild birds
- The sale and movement of poultry and captive birds has been restricted
- Surveillance has been increased to detect any further cases of avian flu
What can I do to help?
The public can help to prevent the spread of avian flu by:
- Avoiding contact with dead or sick birds
- Washing hands thoroughly after coming into contact with poultry or captive birds
- Keeping poultry indoors and following strict biosecurity measures
- Reporting any suspected cases of avian flu to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77
For more information on avian flu, please visit the GOV.UK website: www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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