Compulsory housing measures for poultry as Avian Flu Risk reaches ‘very high’
Compulsory housing measures for poultry as Avian Flu Risk reaches ‘very high’
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The Welsh Government has announced new compulsory housing measures for poultry and captive birds as the country faces what officials describe as a “very high” risk of avian influenza.
From Thursday 13 November, all keepers with 50 or more birds will be legally required to house them, with additional rules applying to smaller flocks involved in selling or giving away eggs or poultry products.
The move follows a rise in avian influenza cases affecting both kept and wild birds across Great Britain.
Under the new rules, mandatory housing applies to all flocks of 50 birds or more, regardless of species. Smaller flocks under 50 birds must also be housed if the keeper trades or distributes eggs or poultry products.
Additional biosecurity measures are being introduced for the gamebird sector, which saw outbreaks last season.
Deputy First Minister and Rural Affairs Minister Huw Irranca-Davies said the Welsh Government had been closely monitoring the situation and that the decision was “not taken lightly.”
He said: “We keep measures under active review. Since the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was introduced at the start of the year, the risk of disease has recently increased further, and Wales is now facing a very high level of avian influenza risk.
“The decision has not been taken lightly, but it is necessary to protect both our bird populations and the livelihoods of poultry keepers across Wales.
“I urge all bird keepers to comply with these requirements and maintain the highest standards of biosecurity. I recognise this will be challenging, but by acting now we can help prevent the spread of this disease and protect our flocks.”
Wales’ Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Richard Irvine, said the sharp rise in cases meant that additional, immediate action was required to contain the spread.
He said: “We are seeing a sharp increase in the number of avian influenza cases in kept and wild birds. In the face of the current very high risk levels, we are now introducing mandatory bird housing measures, which will apply across the whole of Wales.
“I appreciate the impact these measures have on keepers, and remain grateful for their continued cooperation to protect bird health and welfare.
“Housing measures can help protect birds from the threat of disease, but they are not a substitute for stringent hygiene and biosecurity.
“I strongly advise keepers to act now and familiarise themselves with the steps they need to take to protect their birds. This includes using the mandatory biosecurity checklists available online.
“Everybody should continue to remain vigilant, report any suspect cases of disease immediately, and ensure they are following the mandatory enhanced biosecurity requirements to protect your birds.”
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