Avian influenza housing measures to be lifted from next Thursday

The UK government has announced that mandatory housing measures for poultry will be lifted from Thursday, 9th April, in England and Wales. This decision follows a reassessment of the avian influenza risk, which has been determined to have reduced significantly. The measures, initially introduced across England on 6th November last year, were put in place to prevent the spread of bird flu among both wild birds and poultry.

Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, Jorge Martin-Almagro, confirmed that the latest risk assessment, supported by the best available epidemiological and scientific evidence, has shown a reduction in the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) levels in both wild birds and poultry. As a result, poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can be kept outside. However, it is important to note that the avian influenza prevention zone mandatory biosecurity measures will remain in place until the wild bird risk falls further.

The lifting of housing measures will apply to all areas, except for those keepers located in a protection zone or a captive bird monitoring (controlled) zone. These zones are designated in areas where there has been a recent HPAI outbreak, and the housing measures will remain in effect there. Additionally, bird gatherings such as fairs and markets will still be subject to either a general or specific licence.

Martin-Almagro emphasized that while the threat of avian influenza is receding, the risk to poultry and other captive birds has not been entirely eliminated. He urged bird keepers to prepare outdoor areas before releasing their birds, stressing the importance of maintaining rigorous and strict biosecurity practices. "I urge keepers to take steps to prepare outdoor areas before letting birds out. It is still essential that bird keepers remain vigilant and implement rigorous and strict biosecurity," he said.

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Richard Irvine, also highlighted the need for preparedness ahead of the housing order being lifted on 9th April. He advised keepers to check and prepare their ranges and outdoor areas, reminding them that while risk levels are decreasing, bird flu has not been eradicated. "Please continue to practise scrupulous hygiene and biosecurity to protect your birds. Stay vigilant for signs of disease and report any suspect cases to APHA immediately," Irvine added.

The lifting of housing measures marks a significant step in easing restrictions put in place to combat the avian influenza outbreak. However, it is crucial for bird keepers to remain alert and continue implementing robust biosecurity practices to safeguard their birds and prevent the spread of the virus. As the risk of HPAI continues to diminish, the focus will now shift to ensuring that the avian influenza prevention zone measures are effectively maintained and enforced to further reduce the risk of outbreaks in the future.