UK Imposes New Housing Order to Combat Avian Influenza Outbreak
A nationwide housing order for poultry and captive birds has been enacted across Great Britain, requiring stringent biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza. The new regulations, announced Thursday, mandate that bird keepers house their flocks and maintain strict hygiene protocols, including keeping feed and bedding indoors and thoroughly disinfecting clothing, footwear, and equipment.
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed that the rules do not apply to individuals engaged in hobby keeping. This targeted approach aims to mitigate risk while minimizing disruption to smaller-scale bird ownership.
Enhanced Biosecurity Measures Now Mandatory
The housing order builds upon an existing Avian Influenza Prevention Zone already in effect throughout Great Britain. This zone requires all flock owners to implement enhanced biosecurity protocols, a critical step in safeguarding against the highly contagious disease. These measures are designed to limit contact between wild birds – known carriers of the virus – and domestic poultry.
Specifically, keepers must now ensure all feed and bedding are stored indoors to prevent contamination. Rigorous cleaning and disinfection procedures are required for all items that may come into contact with birds, including clothing, footwear, equipment, and vehicles, both before and after interaction with poultry or captive birds.
Industry Leaders Welcome Swift Action
The British Poultry Council has voiced its support for the government’s decisive response. “Strong action was needed,” stated Richard Griffiths, chief executive of the British Poultry Council. “Vigilance remains key: all bird keepers must comply with mandatory biosecurity measures to protect their flocks and prevent the spread of this devastating disease.”
The industry representative emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness. “Defra must continue to monitor the situation closely and stand ready to extend the housing order if the risk increases,” Griffiths added.
The implementation of this housing order underscores the ongoing threat posed by avian influenza and the commitment to protecting both commercial poultry operations and the broader bird population. The situation remains fluid, and continued adherence to biosecurity protocols is paramount.
