Britain is currently experiencing a significant outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 (bird flu), with 27 confirmed cases across England and Wales since 11 October.

The number of cases has led to widespread concern across the poultry industry, with all of Britain currently classed as an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), which requires poultry keepers to follow strict biosecurity measures.

In the AIPZ in England, a mandatory housing order came into effect on 6 November, requiring bird keepers across the country to house all poultry and captive birds if they keep more than 50 birds or if they sell or give away eggs.

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Authorities have implemented 3km protection zones and 10km surveillance zones around sites infected with bird flu.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises that bird flu is primarily a disease of birds, and the risk to the general public’s health is very low.

Wild bird population

Weekly report findings in wild birds have confirmed a total of 56 positive cases of bird flu were identified in wild birds in the week ending 2 November (week 44) across Britain. Half of these cases were found in the Mute Swan population. A further 16 wild geese also tested positive for avian influenza.