Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
February 7, 2025
The UK government has announced new measures to prevent the spread of bird flu in England after the disease was confirmed in several areas across the country.
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has confirmed cases of H5N1 avian influenza in poultry and captive birds in Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Lincolnshire, and North Yorkshire.
As a result, DEFRA has declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across the whole of England, including the Isles of Scilly, with immediate effect.
The AIPZ means that all poultry and captive bird keepers must follow strict biosecurity measures to help prevent the spread of the disease. These measures include:
- Keeping birds indoors or otherwise isolated from wild birds
- Cleaning and disinfecting equipment, clothing, and vehicles
- Minimizing movement of birds between premises
- Reporting any sick or dead birds to DEFRA immediately
The government is also urging the public to report any dead or sick wild birds to DEFRA, as this can help to monitor the spread of the disease.
In addition to the AIPZ, DEFRA has also implemented a number of other measures to control the outbreak, including:
- Establishing a temporary control zone around each confirmed case
- Restricting the movement of poultry and eggs from affected areas
- Culing infected birds
The government has stressed that the risk to human health from bird flu is very low, and that it is safe to eat properly cooked poultry and eggs. However, people should avoid touching sick or dead birds, and should wash their hands thoroughly after handling poultry or eggs.
The government is working closely with the poultry industry and other stakeholders to control the outbreak and prevent its spread. It is also urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspected cases of bird flu to DEFRA immediately.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Poultry
The symptoms of bird flu in poultry can vary depending on the strain of the virus, but can include:
- Respiratory problems, such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing
- Swelling and discoloration of the head, neck, and feet
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Diarrhea
- Sudden death
If you suspect that your poultry may have bird flu, it is important to contact DEFRA immediately.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Humans
The symptoms of bird flu in humans can vary depending on the strain of the virus, but can include:
- Fever and chills
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Respiratory problems, such as coughing and difficulty breathing
If you think you may have bird flu, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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