Latest situation with Avian Influenza
Defra announced today (19th March) that the risk of avian influenza to both wild and kept birds has reduced to ‘medium’.
- The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) requiring enhanced biosecurity will remain in force, but Wednesday 31 March 2021 will be the last day poultry and other captive birds will need to be housed (housing restrictions end 23:59 31 March 2021).
- Bird gatherings are still prohibited.
- High standards of biosecurity remain essential as infection may still be present in the environment.
Please see the AIPZ section for further details of the measures that apply in the AIPZ and the Defra guidance on How to prepare for when your free-range birds can be let outside again
This includes:
- cleansing and disinfection of hard surfaces,
- fencing off ponds or standing water,
- reintroduction of wild bird deterrents.
When the birds are allowed out from 1st April, poultry and captive bird keepers will need to keep taking extra precautions, such as:
- cleaning and disinfecting equipment and vehicles,
- limiting access to non-essential people on site,
- anyone coming into contact with the birds changing their clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures.