New regulations brought in to tackle bird flu in East of England
An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone has been put in place across Norfolk and Suffolk, as well as most of Essex
New regulations to prevent the spread of bird flu have been brought in across much of the East of England.
An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone has been declared in Norfolk, Suffolk and large parts of Essex.
The H5N1 strain of the virus is potentially fatal to birds, but is rarely harmful to humans.
It will now be a legal requirement for bird and poultry keepers to take additional measures to keep their flocks safe.
From today, owners must:
- Take precautions to avoid the transmission of the virus between different locations. including cleaning vehicles, equipment and clothing. Disinfection points should be put in place near entrances and exits to enclosures.
- Cover food and water to stop wild birds gaining access.
- Separate ducks and geese from other poultry species.
- Take steps to eliminate vermin from enclosures.
- Restrict the movement of people and vehicles from areas near animal enclosures.
- Keep up to date records of people or vehicles accessing areas where birds or poultry are kept.
- Keep records of any movements of poultry or eggs from enclosures to different locations.
- Keep records of any bird deaths and correctly dispose of any bodies. Any sudden increase in deaths should be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency
- Ensure buildings where poultry or birds are kept are well maintained.
Additional rules are also in place for people keeping large flocks (of 500 animals or over), or keeping poultry or birds in outdoor enclosures.
The full set of restrictions can be viewed here.
The most recent outbreak of bird flu in the region was reported in Suffolk last week, with a flock near Hadleigh being culled.