A positive case of H5N1 Avian Influenza has recently been confirmed at a poultry farm near Melbourne. This is the first case recorded in the East Riding during the current season; however, as in previous years, further cases are probable as we move through the winter period.
Please find below an overview of the current situation and the measures in place.
Due to the frequency of outbreaks experienced across the UK in recent years, the response arrangements have become more streamlined. Historically, local authorities supported the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) by identifying bird keepers through door-to-door enquiries in affected areas. This is no longer routinely required, as bird keepers are now legally required to register with the national poultry register. Information on registration requirements is included below.
Active cases and disease control zones can be viewed using the DEFRA Avian Influenza Interactive Map, and official disease declarations are available on GOV.UK.
Requirements of Restriction Zones
Bird keepers must comply with any additional disease control measures that apply within their area. For example, premises located within a 3 km Protection Zone or Captive Bird Monitoring Zone must house birds regardless of flock size or whether they are kept solely for personal use.
Key Requirements Within a 3 km Protection Zone
Bird keepers must:
- Keep poultry and other captive birds housed.
- Not move poultry, captive birds, or mammals to or from affected premises except under licence.
- Maintain records of visitors to premises where birds are kept.
- Implement and maintain appropriate biosecurity measures.
Restrictions associated with individual outbreaks normally remain in place for a minimum of six weeks.
Currently a wider Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has not been declared however, all bird keepers, regardless of the number or species of birds kept, are encouraged to implement enhanced biosecurity measures now to help reduce the risk of further cases.
Registration Requirement for Bird Keepers
Since 1 October 2024, anyone in Great Britain who keeps:
- Any number of poultry, whether commercially, as a hobby, or as pets; or
- Captive birds that are not permanently housed indoors,
must register their details with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
The compulsory registration of bird keepers has changed how awareness activities are undertaken during outbreaks. Rather than contacting every premises individually within disease control zones, the Council now relies more heavily on targeted communications and media campaigns. Promoting outbreak information helps ensure bird keepers are aware of their obligations and any restrictions that may apply.
Where outbreaks occur in the East Riding, APHA updates and Council messaging will be shared through East Riding of Yorkshire Council social media channels.
Council Animal Health Officers may also be present in affected areas to undertake compliance activities and display information posters highlighting the measures in place.
Further Information
Further information about avian influenza is available on the Government website.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises that avian influenza is primarily a disease of birds and that the risk to public health remains very low.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises that avian influenza presents a very low food safety risk to UK consumers. Properly cooked poultry, poultry products, and eggs remain safe to eat.
Future Updates
Given the number of cases experienced nationally each year, routine notifications of every new East Riding case will not normally be circulated by email. Instead, updates will be shared through Council social media channels and other established communication routes.
Should there be any significant changes to restrictions, disease control measures, or response arrangements, we will of course provide further updates directly.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation”