Vigilance Needed Following First Confirmed Case of Avian Flu in Commercial Flock in the UK

The IFA Poultry Committee, led by Chair Nigel Sweetnam, is urgently calling on poultry farmers and the wider sector to strengthen biosecurity measures following the first confirmed case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N5 in a commercial free-range laying flock in Yorkshire, England.

“In light of this confirmed case and the spell of very mild weather, it is critical that everyone involved in the poultry sector takes immediate action to ensure strict biosecurity is upheld across all operations, in particular for outdoor flocks and backyard flocks. Heightened vigilance and adherence to preventive measures are essential to minimise the risk to flocks here,” he said.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) in the UK confirmed the incident on Tuesday. In response, a three km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established around the affected premises.

While no cases of avian influenza have been detected in Irish poultry or wild birds this season, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has advised that the risk level is rising due to the ongoing migratory season, during which birds could carry the virus across borders.

“The current migratory period raises the potential for the virus to spread, so farmers and others in the sector must take every possible precaution. We strongly urge all poultry producers to maintain strict biosecurity; closely monitor flock health; and promptly report any signs of illness to their Regional Veterinary Office.”

Special caution is advised for free-range flocks, where additional safeguards are particularly vital. Farmers should consult DAFM’s specific guidance for these operations.

DAFM also asks the public for their co-operation. Members of the public who encounter sick or dead wild birds are advised not to touch them and to report sightings through the AvianCheck app or by contacting their Regional Veterinary Office.