The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) have declared a second regional Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across Norfolk, Suffolk and parts of Essex.
The zone, which came into place at 12pm on Tuesday 27th September poses legal requirements for bird owners to follow strict biosecurity measures in order to protect their flocks.
All keepers of poultry within the zone, including those with pet birds must follow the minimum biosecurity measures outlined by the government, whilst keepers of 500 or more poultry must also comply with additional measures in order to mitigate their risks.
This regional prevention zone announcement is the second to be put in place since the country-wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, which was introduced last November was lifted on the 16th August. The first to be put in place came just 2 weeks after, on the 31st August and impacted bird owners in the Southwest of England in Cornwall, Devon, Isles of Scilly and part of Somerset.
Richard Irvine, the UK’s Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer said on the 27th that, “Following an increased number of detections of avian influenza we have declared an AIPZ across Suffolk, Norfolk and parts of Essex.”
“This means that all bird keepers in the region must urgently take action now to both prevent disease getting into flocks and it spreading any further.”
Since the beginning of September, more than 10 cases of avian influenza have been declared in the area, with 4 in Norfolk, 4 in Suffolk and 2 in Essex.
Avian influenza, which typically follows a seasonal pattern, has seen a continual number of cases across the country in both poultry and wild birds since the beginning of the usual season last year, causing considerable stress and worry to farmers and bird owners alike. This particular strain has been continually declared on premises across the UK since the first confirmed case on 26th October 2021.
Livetec are biosecurity experts
For over a decade, Livetec have been committed to supporting farmers, their teams and animals, by mitigating on-farm risks and enhancing disease prevention measures.
We offer a wide range of biosecurity services that are recognised by both APHA and Defra, and can be tailored to each farm business.
In addition to our unique biosecurity advisory service, we also offer bespoke biosecurity consultancy and training alongside a range of individual plans, including our farm contingency plan, biosecurity plan, infected premises response plan, national outbreak plan and cleaning and disinfection plan.
Protecting your birds from disease with biosecurity protects your business, finances and reputation.
In addition to our wide range of services, Livetec offer assistance and help regarding zones, licensing and requirements. You can seek support by contacting Livetec here.