Bird Flu Confirmed Near Bodmin – Restrictions in Place for Cornwall

Protection Zones Established Following Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Cases

Two new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) have been confirmed, including one near Bodmin, North Cornwall, according to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). The other case has been identified near Bromborough, Wirral, Merseyside, with part of the Surveillance Zone extending into Flintshire, Wales.

To control the outbreak, 3km Protection Zones and 10km Surveillance Zones have been put in place around both affected premises. These measures aim to contain the spread of the virus and protect other poultry and wild bird populations.

Mandatory Biosecurity Measures Across Great Britain

In response to ongoing outbreaks, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains in force across Great Britain. This means all bird keepers, whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks, or just a few birds in a backyard, must follow strict biosecurity protocols.

Additionally, a regional Avian Influenza Prevention Zone is in place for specific areas, requiring mandatory housing and biosecurity measures. The regions affected include:

• North Yorkshire
• York
• An area in Shropshire
• The East Riding of Yorkshire
• The City of Kingston upon Hull
• Lincolnshire
• Norfolk
• Suffolk

Bird keepers in these regions must keep their birds housed to reduce the risk of infection.

What Bird Keepers Need to Do

All bird owners are urged to remain vigilant and follow the housing and biosecurity measures required in their area. Protection and Surveillance Zone restrictions must also be observed to prevent further outbreaks.

For up-to-date information, including disease control zones, check the avian influenza interactive map. Further biosecurity guidance is available on GOV.UK and GOV.WALES.