Avian flu housing measures to be lifted – biosecurity measures to remain

Housing measures introduced to tackle an outbreak of bird flu will be lifted on Monday 2 May, the UK Government has confirmed.

However, the mandatory biosecurity measures will remain in place for all birds.

Anyone intending to allow their birds outside on or after 2 May must take action to prepare the outside areas.

OIC Trading Standards Manager, Gary Foubister, said: “Poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed, unless they are in a Protection Zone, and will be allowed to be kept outside. While the risk of bird flu has been reduced to ‘medium’ for premises with poor biosecurity, the enhanced biosecurity requirements that were brought in as part of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) will remain in force as infection may still be circulating in the environment for several more weeks. All poultry gatherings will remain banned.

“Those who intend to allow their birds outside are advised to use the upcoming days to prepare their outside areas for the release of their birds. This will include cleansing and disinfection of hard surfaces, fencing off ponds or standing water and reintroduction of wild bird deterrents.”

The AIPZ will remain in force across the UK, with only the housing measures component being lifted from Monday 2 May. This means all bird keepers (whether they have pet birds, a commercial sized or a backyard flock) must be diligent in continuing to take effective and precautionary biosecurity measures including cleansing and disinfecting equipment, clothing and vehicles, limiting access to non-essential people on their sites, and workers changing clothing and footwear before entering and when leaving bird enclosures.

Poultry and captive bird keepers must be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns.

If you find dead swans, geese or ducks or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.

Keepers should familiarise themselves with the avian flu advice.