Bird Flu in England – A Growing Concern
England is once again facing a serious challenge from bird flu, officially known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1. With the first case of this outbreak confirmed in November 2024, the virus has now spread widely, triggering sweeping prevention and control measures. As of May 5, 2025, the government continues to enforce strict biosecurity and housing mandates to control the spread among both wild and captive bird populations.
Overview of Current AIPZ Measures and Impact
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) is currently in effect across England, requiring all bird keepers—whether you own a commercial flock or a few backyard chickens—to follow strict rules. These include mandatory housing in certain regions, a ban on bird gatherings, and enhanced hygiene practices. Failure to comply not only puts your birds at risk but can result in legal penalties and potential disease spread.
Latest Developments as of May 2025
Recent Zone Changes and Lifting of Restrictions
Significant progress has been made in disease control in some areas. For example, on May 5, authorities lifted the 3km protection zone around Stanhope in County Durham after successful containment and monitoring efforts. Similarly, the 3km zone around Romsey in Hampshire was ended on May 3, transitioning these areas into 10km surveillance zones where biosecurity remains vital but housing orders may be relaxed.
New Surveillance Zones and What They Mean
Surveillance zones are not a green light for total freedom. They are watchful regions where any signs of disease must be promptly reported, and where moderate restrictions still apply. Bird keepers in these zones should still limit movement and interactions between birds, closely observe flock health, and comply with all biosecurity protocols outlined by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra).
Areas Under Mandatory Housing Orders
Full List of Regions and Why Housing Is Crucial
As of the latest update, the following areas are under mandatory housing orders:
- Cheshire
- County Durham
- Cumbria
- East Riding of Yorkshire
- Herefordshire
- Lancashire
- Lincolnshire
- Merseyside
- Norfolk
- North Yorkshire
- Northumberland
- Shropshire
- Suffolk
- Tyne and Wear
- Worcestershire
- York
- City of Kingston Upon Hull
These measures aim to prevent domestic birds from coming into contact with infected wild birds, a known vector for spreading HPAI. Housing is particularly crucial during migration seasons when wild bird traffic increases significantly.
What Bird Keepers Must Do in Housing Zones
If you’re in one of these zones, here’s what’s required:
- Keep all poultry and captive birds indoors or under fully enclosed netting.
- Prevent access by wild birds to feed and water.
- Clean and disinfect footwear, tools, and surfaces regularly.
- Minimize movement in and out of bird enclosures.
- Keep accurate records of poultry and egg movements.
Neglecting these measures could lead to enforcement action and increase the risk of devastating outbreaks that affect not only your birds but also neighboring farms and wildlife.
