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DEFRA Orders Targeted Bird Housing in 21 Counties as Flu Controls Take Effect

The move responds to recent H5N1 detections, requiring larger or commercial keepers in designated counties to house birds.

Overview

  • From 00:01 on October 30, bird keepers in specified high‑risk areas across north, central and parts of east England must keep flocks indoors.
  • Rules apply to keepers with more than 50 birds or to those who sell or give away eggs or poultry products, with hobby keepers under 50 for private use exempt.
  • Named areas include Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Cumbria, Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincolnshire, Greater Manchester, North and West Yorkshire, and others.
  • An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone remains in force across Great Britain, requiring enhanced biosecurity such as record‑keeping, disinfection and vermin control.
  • A second H5N1 case was confirmed at a large unit near Brandon, Suffolk, with protection and surveillance zones set and a humane cull ordered; UKHSA says human risk remains very low and properly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat.