UK animal health authorities have identified one cluster of H5N8 bird flu in captive birds near Stroud in Gloucestershire. The birds are at a non-poultry premises and the government has instituted a temporary 3km and 10km control zone in response.

A second outbreak was confirmed in poultry and captive birds near Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. A similar 3km and 10km exclusion zone is operating in the area.

APHA reminds bird keepers that the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone means it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers in GB (whether they are pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock) to follow strict biosecurity measures. Use the biosecurity guidance and self-assessment checklist to help enhance and maintain robust biosecurity measures and reduce the risk of incursion of avian influenza into their birds.

See the UK’s biosecurity resources here.