Avian Influenza

Defra confirmed the first case of Avian Influenza in poultry in England this Autumn. The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer is urging all bird keepers to follow scrupulous biosecurity measures following the confirmation of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N5 in poultry in East Riding of Yorkshire. To prevent further spread of the disease, all poultry on the infected premises will be humanely culled and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone has been put in place surrounding the premises. Access updates on the latest situation and Defra’s guidance.

The Exotic Disease (Amendment) (England) Order 2023 has come into force in England and introduces amendments to The Avian Influenza and Influenza of Avian Origin in Mammals (England) (No.2) Order 2006. GOV.UK guidance on avian influenza diagnostic testing and influenza infections in mammals  have been updated to reflect the legislative changes.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a new digital way for the reporting of dead wild birds in a bid to further enhance the Northern Ireland Avian Influenza (AI) surveillance program.

APHA has issued a new guidance note on the use of antigen tests to detect Avian Influenza, along with clarification on interpretation and reporting. Vets are being asked to carefully consider the use of influenza tests during the current AI outbreak, and make sure that colleagues and clients are aware of their responsibilities for reporting suspicion of notifiable avian disease.