Bird owners are being reminded to register their birds to help prevent the spread of Avian Flu, commonly known as Bird Flu.
The disease is very low risk to human health, but can post substantial risk to the United Kingdom’s poultry industry and bird populations.
Bird flu typically spikes during the Autumn and Winter months with the arrival of migratory birds. The presence of the disease can lead to Protection Zones being introduced in certain areas as well as other preventative measures.
Currently, there is an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone across Lincolnshire. In light of this, bird keepers are being reminded to register their birds. Now a legal requirement, doing so will provide bird owners with important local avian flu outbreak updates and information about biosecurity rules.
Owners can apply online by visiting Poultry registration – GOV.UK.
They are also legally required to follow other strict biosecurity measures including:
- cleansing and disinfecting 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
- carry out effective vermin control in any areas where poultry and captive birds are kept
- 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
- prevent access by poultry to ponds and watercourses and ensure that birds are kept in fenced or enclosed areas
To report possible cases of bird flu and for further guidance, visit Bird flu (avian influenza): how to spot and report it in poultry or other captive birds – GOV.UK
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