Bird flu measures lifted

All restrictions that have been in place following the avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak have now been lifted, both nationally and locally.

The local 3km Protection Zone has ended and the 10km Surveillance Zone has been revoked following an outbreak at a farm in Laceby back in February 2022, meaning all restrictions, including the extra measures in place, have been removed.

Birds are no longer required to be housed, although keepers are encouraged to remain vigilant for signs of disease and to maintain good biosecurity measures when dealing with their birds.

All poultry gatherings are still banned, both nationally and locally.

Advice to poultry keepers

All bird keepers must keep a close watch on them for signs of disease and maintain good biosecurity at all times.

If you have any concerns about the health of your birds, seek prompt advice from your vet.

Poultry keepers must:

• cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
• reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective vermin control
• thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing on a continuous basis
• keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points
• minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds

More information can be found here: www.gov.uk/government/news/bird-flu-latest-situation-avian-influenza-prevention-zone-declared-across-great-britain