UK Poultry Keepers Urged to Strengthen Biosecurity as Bird Flu Risk Increases

Poultry farmers and other bird keepers across the United Kingdom have been urged to strengthen biosecurity measures as the risk of avian influenza increases with the return of migratory wild birds for winter.

The warning follows confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N5 at a premises in Ness, on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland, last week.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs says strict biosecurity remains essential to protecting birds and preventing the spread of the disease. Eligible poultry keepers in England can access a funded biosecurity review worth 430 pounds, which includes a veterinary visit, a written report and recommendations tailored to their farms.

Recommended measures include regularly cleaning and disinfecting bird housing, controlling rodents, protecting feed and water from wild birds, and limiting contact between domestic poultry and wild waterfowl.

Veterinary officials have also advised keepers to monitor their birds for signs of illness and report suspected cases promptly. Symptoms of severe bird flu include sudden death, reduced egg production, breathing difficulties, swelling of the head and reduced appetite.

Authorities say early action and consistent hygiene practices are essential to reducing the risk of infection.