Overview
- About 50 confirmed HPAI H5N1 farm outbreaks have been recorded since early October, exceeding last winter’s pace but remaining below the 2022–23 peak.
- Authorities have imposed housing orders for flocks over 50 birds, strict biosecurity rules, and 3km protection and 10km surveillance zones with humane culls at infected premises.
- Large losses include 48,000 turkeys culled at Capestone Organic Poultry in west Wales, with cases confirmed near Claydon, Driffield and Milford Haven.
- Industry sources expect tighter supplies and higher prices for Christmas poultry, with major supermarkets better able to secure stock than smaller retailers and hospitality operators.
- Experts describe the circulating virus as highly infectious and unusually ‘fit,’ and Sainsbury’s has reduced its turkey crown selection due to a stated supply issue.