SUMMER 2022 AVIAN INFLUENZA Be alert to avian flu Some restrictions have been eased, but bird keepers in the UK must still follow strict biosecurity measures The 2021-22 avian influenza season has been a serious challenge across the UK, with nearly 100 cases of H5N1 nationally a significant increase on previous years. An avian influenza prevention zone (AIPZ) has been in force across Britain since 3 November 2021, and in Northern Ireland since 17 November 2021. This means birds are allowed to range outside, but bird keepers whether they have commercial flocks, a few birds in the backyard, or pet birds must follow strict biosecurity measures to limit the spread of, and eradicate, the disease (see panel). Additional housing measures were brought in across the UK on 29 November 2021, but ended on 2 May, and bird keepers ought to have taken measures to prepare outside areas in advance of these restrictions being lifted. Dead wild birds The AIPZ remains in force, however, and failure to comply is not only an offence, but also risks the health and welfare of your birds. If you come across a dead wild bird, do not touch it or pick it up, but report it to the APHA on 03459 335577 To help bird keepers adhere to the rules, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its biosecurity advice. There are separate AIPZ declarations for each UK administration, and these can be found on the APHA website. AIPZ in England Under the AIPZ in England, biosecurity measures to limit the spread of avian flu include: n Cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds if practical, use disposable protective clothing n Reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective vermin control n Thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing on a continuous basis n Keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points n Minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds. With new cases of H5N1 still being reported, it is difficult to predict when the AIPZs will be lifted. Credit: Victoria Caswell, animal health officer, Shropshire Council; Image: iStock / georgeclerk Bird keepers are advised to check Gov.uk regularly to keep up to date with the current advice, and further information is available in a range of Stop the Spread webinars. For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Service