This is a reminder that the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) is still in place after coming into action on the 3 November 2021.
These measures are a legal requirement for all bird keepers across the UK to keep their birds housed and follow strict biosecurity measures to limit the spread of Avian Influenza (bird flu) and eradicate the disease. This applies to all bird owners whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks, or just a few birds in a backyard flock. Failure to comply with the AIPZ is an offence and risks the health and welfare of your birds.
To help bird keepers comply with the rules, the guidance has been updated. Please see the following link: biosecurity advice.
As of 13 April 2022 a number of cases of Avian Influenza have been confirmed in the Devon area. To ensure that it does not spread to the islands, please ensure you are following the AIPZ requirements to:
- House or net all poultry and captive birds to keep them separate from wild birds
- 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
Whether you have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock, find out what you can do to keep your birds free of Avian Influenza by watching avian influenza ‘stop the spread’ webinars. Alternatively you can visit Avian influenza (bird flu) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) for the latest in government guidance and updates on the Avian Influenza measures.
The National Farmers Union's website is regularly updated with information on the latest confirmed Avian Influenza cases, including the restrictions that apply in the Disease Control Zones around the infected premises.
If you have any questions about Avian Influenza, please contact the Environmental Health team by emailing environmentalhealth@scilly.gov.uk or calling 07780 585 139.