Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Find out how to register your birds

Update 10 April 2024

DECLARATION OF HPAI FREE STATUS FOR THE UK

The UK has now declared itself free of HPAI in poultry in line with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) rules. However, while this is good news and reflects the current situation, both HPAI H5N1 and H5N5 continue to be found in wild birds in Great Britain and Europe and outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 also continue to occur in poultry and other captive birds in several countries in Europe.  It is therefore important that poultry keepers remain vigilant and retain good biosecurity.  Indeed this is one of the pre-requisites for reduction of risk status (see below).

Change to HPAI H5 Wild Bird Risk Level

The risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 in wild birds in Great Britain has reduced from medium (event occurs regularly) to low (event is rare but does occur).

The risk of poultry exposure to HPAI H5 in Great Britain remains assessed as:

• low (event is rare but does occur) (with medium uncertainty) where there are substantial biosecurity breaches and poor biosecurity
• low (event is rare but does occur) (with low uncertainty) where good biosecurity is applied

The virus is still circulating in wild birds in Great Britain and all bird keepers should remain vigilant for signs of disease to protect the health and welfare of their birds.

The risk is continually reviewed, and it is too early to predict the outlook for future seasons and risk levels may increase again in autumn associated with the migratory pattern of waterfowl and environmental conditions becoming more favourable for virus survival.

To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription service further details can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service

Keepers should maintain high standards of biosecurity at all times for the health and welfare of their birds. Good biosecurity is an essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak. Biosecurity guidance and a biosecurity self-assessment checklist have been published by Defra to assist all bird keepers in instigating and maintaining good biosecurity

For further information on these cases and details of the measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:Scotland: https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-outbreaks/

Update 18 March 2024

Please be aware of amendments made to the Scottish Bird Gathering General Licence, which came into force on 15 March, and now place less onerous restrictions on keepers of less than 50 birds and those with birds of a species other than Galliformes, which have been assessed at lower risk of getting highly pathogenic avian influenza.

The main parts of the licence that have changed are as follows, but please see the full licence conditions at the link above:

• 3. The licensee must distribute biosecurity advice in advance of the event to any participant, including the instruction that birds must  be inspected for signs of illness before travelling to any gathering, and a recommendation that any birds travelling from a gathering should be kept separate from wild birds, isolated from other kept birds at that premises and monitored for signs of illness for at least fourteen days.
• 4. The licensee must advise participants that:

i. the premises of origin for any galliformes attending a gathering (and for premises with 50 or more poultry) must be registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on the GB Poultry Register, and that the keeper of the birds attending the gathering will need to provide evidence of registration before they are granted entry.

ii. it is recommended that all other birds should be registered on the GB Poultry Register before attending a gathering.

• 6. The licensee must ensure that:

ii. when they arrive at the event, all galliformes remain isolated from all other birds on the event site until all such birds have been individually inspected by a named veterinary surgeon, designated by the licensee.

iii. when they arrive at the event, birds of a species other than galliformes remain isolated from all other birds on the event site until all such birds have been individually inspected by a named person, designated by the licensee, who is knowledgeable in identifying and reporting the signs of notifiable avian disease in these species.

iv. at gatherings where both galliformes and birds of a species other than galliformes are present, upon their arrival, all birds remain isolated from all other birds until they have been individually inspected by a named veterinary surgeon designated by the licensee.

• 14. The licensee must also:

i. ensure that a veterinary surgeon is available to attend at short notice during the whole time that birds are present at the gathering, and ensure they are consulted if birds show signs of ill-health or welfare problems;

v. in the case of impervious surfaces, cleanse and disinfect those parts of the premises contaminated by such materials; if the gathering is held on unpaved ground, that ground must not be used for another bird gathering or keeping birds for two weeks;

Please note that gatherings of anseriformes (including ducks, geese and swans) are still prohibited.

Update 5 February 2024

Gatherings of galliformes  (chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail and other land fowl) to be permitted from 12 noon on Monday 05 February 2024 - gatherings of anseriformes  (duck and geese) still prohibited.

The number of cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in poultry and other captive birds, and the incidence of HPAI in wild birds, has reduced significantly in recent weeks. This, amongst other factors, has resulted in the current risk assessment of bird flu in poultry to be deemed as low. Furthermore, a risk assessment of the risks associated specifically with poultry gatherings has indicated that the risk for gatherings of birds is low for all species with the exception of anseriformes (ducks and geese), for which the risk is medium.

On this basis, the ban on gatherings of galliformes (chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail and other land fowl), which was introduced in Scotland in December 2022, and which has been a vital tool in protecting flocks across the country, is to be lifted from 12 noon on Monday 05 February 2024. We will continue to monitor risk levels and adjust licence conditions accordingly.

This current change will allow all bird gatherings to take place, with the exception of anseriformes (ducks, geese and swans). The gathering of anseriformes remains prohibited.

Gatherings are also still subject to organisers of gatherings notifying the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and complying with the provisions of the new general licence The new licence will be published on gov.scot at 12 noon on Monday 05 February.

It should be noted that the new General Licence now includes a requirement for keepers of galliformes attending a show to declare to the event organisers, in advance, that they are aware of all biosecurity requirements; that their birds show no sign of infection; that the birds do not originate from a disease control zone; and that their premises is registered on the GB Poultry Register.

Continued Best Practice and Vigilance

Good biosecurity is still the most effective measure of disease control available, and whilst the risk of avian influenza has reduced, low risk does not mean no risk and high standards of biosecurity remain important. Bird keepers are strongly advised to apply high standards of biosecurity measures at all times to prevent and mitigate future disease outbreaks.

Poultry and other captive bird keepers are advised to remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds, and to seek prompt advice from their private vet if they have any concerns. They can help prevent avian flu by maintaining good biosecurity on their premises, including:

• fencing off ponds, streams, boggy areas or standing water, and draining them where possible. Netting or covering ponds.

• deterring wild birds by regularly walking through the area or by using predator decoys and removing any wild bird feed sources.

• cleansing and disinfecting clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry or other captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing.

• cleansing and disinfecting concrete or other permeable areas and putting down wood shavings in wet areas.

• Using government approved disinfectant foot dips when entering and exiting enclosures or houses.

• reducing the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and other captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective rodent control.

Wild Birds

• The public in Great Britain are being advised that if they find at the same place at the same time:

• a single dead bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull, or

• five or more dead wild birds of any other species

you should report them to: Report dead wild birds – GOV.UK

Alternatively, you can phone the GB phone helpline: 03459 33 55 77.  If you wish to submit a report without providing contact details, then the telephone helpline should be used. You must be 18 or over to use this service to report dead wild birds. It is advisable that you do not touch these birds.

• Sick or injured wild birds should be reported to the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) in Scotland by telephone (03000 999 999). 

Public Health

The risk to the general public’s health from avian influenza is still “very low”, and is considered “low” for people with intensive exposure to infected birds. Food Standards Scotland (FSS) advise that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers, and it does not affect the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.

GB Poultry Register

In GB, you are legally required to register your birds if you keep more than 50. Keepers with less than 50 birds are strongly encouraged to register. It is also a legal requirement to notify APHA of any significant changes in the average number of birds kept.

For anyone interested in animal diseases, not just diseases of poultry, they may wish to sign up for free text and/or email alerts on national disease outbreaks via APHA’s subscription service. Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or other captive birds, you must report it immediately by contacting your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.

Further advice for bird keepers can be found at www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza.

Update 24 October 2023

On 23 October, THE Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in a back yard flock of 15 chickens at a premises near Strichen, Aberdeenshire (AIV 2023/54). As a result, the Scottish Ministers declared the premises as an infected premises (IP) at 5:42 pm on 23 October 2023, and have implemented appropriate controls. 

This new case is the 1st confirmed case of HPAI in Scotland since 01 October 2023 when the new season started, and emphasises the importance of enhanced biosecurity to protect commercial and domestic poultry in Scotland, and also in Argyll and Bute.

Advice for keepers of poultry and other captive birds

Following risk assessment, the risk of exposure to poultry and other captive birds from avian influenza H5N1 is currently low, but the risk to wild birds remains high.

However, keepers are advised to adopt the following measures as best practice, and these include the need to:

• cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry or other captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing

• reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and other captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective rodent control

• thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing on a continuous basis

• keep government approved fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points

• minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and other captive birds with wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds

All poultry gatherings that are currently banned remain prohibited.  This includes local shows.

Wild Birds

• The public in Great Britain are being advised that if they find at the same place at the same time:
• a single dead bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull, or
• five or more dead wild birds of any other species 

you should report them to: Report dead wild birds – GOV.UK

• Alternatively, you can phone the GB phone helpline: 03459 33 55 77.  
• If you wish to submit a report without providing contact details, then the telephone helpline should be used.  You must be 18 or over to use this service to report dead wild birds.
• It is advisable that you do not touch these birds.

• Sick or injured wild birds should be reported to the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) in Scotland by telephone (03000 999 999). 

Public Health

The risk to the general public’s health from avian influenza is still “very low”, and is considered “low” for people with intensive exposure to infected birds.  Food Standards Scotland advise that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers, and it does not affect the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.

Biosecurity guidance has been published by the Scottish Government, Defra (England), the Welsh Government and DAERA (Northern Ireland).  This document includes details of biosecurity best practice.

Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease.  If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or other captive birds you must report it immediately by contacting your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Field Services Office.  Failure to do so is an offence.

GB Poultry Register

In GB, you are legally required to register your birds if you keep more than 50.  Keepers with less than 50 birds are strongly encouraged to register.  It is also a legal requirement to notify APHA of any significant changes in the average number of birds kept.

For anyone interested in animal diseases, not just diseases of poultry, they may wish to sign up for free text and/or email alerts on national disease outbreaks via APHA’s subscription service.

Further advice for bird keepers can be found at www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza.

UPDATE 4th OCTOBER 2023 

Commercial and Domestic Poultry Keepers

Migratory birds and colder temperatures are on their way, both of which increase the risk of avian influenza (bird flu). Start improving your biosecurity by checking bird housing for leaks and clearing moss off the roof to discourage wild birds.

More information is available on the Scottish Government website Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot (www.gov.scot).

UPDATE 21th AUGUST 2023

A CHANGING SITUATION

There has been a sharp rise in the confirmed incidence of Avian Influenza in commercial and domestic premises around Scotland. Outbreaks are confirmed in Angus, Aberdeenshire, Lewis, Wester Ross and Dumfries and Galloway.

There are no suspected or confirmed cases in domestic or commercial poultry in Argyll and Bute, although the virus has been identified in a dead wild bird carcass.

The raised incidence appears to pre-date the tracked pattern from last year which is a cause for concern. Against the perception of heightened risk, the council encourages bird owners to maintain their vigilance and to practice good biosecurity. Further information is available here.

There are no reported cases of large numbers of dead wild bird carcasses on our foreshores. If birds are found washed up, the public are reminded to please avoid touching sick or dead wild birds and keep dogs on a lead. The council will leave birds in situ, following Scottish Government guidelines. 

To report dead birds (a single bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull or five or more dead wild birds of any species) visit Report dead wild birds - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) or call 03459 33 55 77

More information is available on the Scottish Government website Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

UPDATE 12th JULY 2023

The present outbreak of avian influenza in Aberdeenshire and reports of dead bird carcasses washed on to foreshores, illustrates that the risks from the virus to poultry and wild birds remains. Whilst there are no confirmed cases in Argyll and Bute, the council encourages all poultry keepers to remain vigilant and ensure that they have effective biosecurity measures in place. 

There are no reported cases of dead wild bird carcases on our foreshores. If birds are found washed up, please avoid touching sick or dead wild birds and keep dogs on a lead. The council will leave birds in situ, following Scottish Government guidelines. 

To report dead birds (a single bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull or five or more dead wild birds of any species) visit Report dead wild birds - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) or call 03459 33 55 77

More information is available on the Scottish Government website Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

UPDATE 4th JULY 2023

GB-wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) lifted at 12:00 noon on 04 July 2023

Following a risk assessment, the risk of exposure to poultry and other captive birds from avian influenza H5 has been reduced to LOW.  As a result, the risk to poultry has now fallen to the level it was immediately before the introduction of the AIPZ in October 2023.  On this basis, Scottish Ministers lifted the AIPZ on Tuesday 04 July 2023.  

Further information can be found in this Declaration 

The lifting of the AIPZ has been mirrored by Defra (England) and the Welsh Government, and so the AIPZ has now been lifted across Great Britain simultaneously.  To note, the AIPZ in Northern Ireland was lifted on 02 June 2023.

‘Low Risk’ does not mean ‘No Risk’

The AIPZ measures were designed to protect poultry and other captive bird premises from avian influenza, but the lifting of the AIPZ does not mean the risk of avian influenza has gone away for keepers of these birds, nor does it mean we will see no further confirmed cases at poultry or other captive bird premises in Scotland.

It should be noted that the risk to wild birds from avian influenza H5 remains High, and although expert opinion has determined a looser transmission connection between the particular species of wild birds currently testing positive for avian influenza H5, and our poultry and other captive birds – thereby allowing a reduction in the risk to poultry – it still means that virus is present in the environment. 

Therefore, good biosecurity is still vital in ensuring that the spread of the virus is mitigated as much as is possible, and bird keepers are encouraged to continue to implement the biosecurity measures within the current AIPZ and adopt these as best practice all year round.  The key biosecurity measures that can be applied are those that minimise direct or indirect contact with wild birds and your flock – in particular, contact with gull species is a particular risk at this time.

Given the unprecedented levels of infection across the UK during this outbreak season, and the continued uncertainty in terms of risk of exposure to wild birds, the current restrictions on poultry shows and gatherings will remain in place.  Such gatherings, which involve Galliformes (chickens, turkeys, pheasants, partridges, quails and other land fowl) and kept Anseriformes (ducks, geese, swans and other water fowl) are still considered to pose a fundamental concern for the spread of this virus amongst poultry.  This measure is regularly reviewed. 

Continued Vigilance

Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease.  If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or other captive birds you must report it immediately by contacting your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Field Services Office.  Failure to do so is an offence.

Further Advice:

• There is a legal requirement for all poultry keepers with 50 or more birds to register their premises on the Great Britain Poultry Register.  The voluntary registration of premises with fewer than 50 birds is highly encouraged.
• In Great Britain, if you find:
• a single dead bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull
• or five or more dead wild birds of any other species

at the same time, you should report them on gov.uk's 'Report dead wild birds' page.

Alternatively, you can phone the GB phone helpline: 03459 33 55 77. 

If you wish to submit a report without providing contact details, then the telephone helpline should be used.  You must be 18 or over to use this service to report dead wild birds.

• Sick or injured wild birds should be reported to the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) in Scotland by telephone (03000 999 999). 
• The risk to the general public’s health from avian influenza is very low.  However, the risk to people with intensive exposure to infected birds is considered to be low.  
• Food Standards Scotland advise that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers, and it does not affect the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.  

For further advice please visit gov.scot/avianinfluenza.

UPDATE 11th APRIL 2023

1. The risks of avian influenza continues and the current national outbreak is the now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017). In 2021/22 there were 158 reported cases and in 22/23 176 cases, as follows:

Number of cases	England	Scotland	Wales	Northern Ireland
2021/22	149	21	5	11
2022/23	134	11	7	6

2. Specific advice to Poultry keepers

Poultry keepers are advised to

• The risk of outbreaks in Argyll and Bute remains a possibility and poultry keepers (domestic and commercial)  should ensure that they continue to follow strict biosecurity measures. This remains a legal requirement
• Ensure high standards of biosecurity are maintained as good practice for the health and welfare of their birds. Good biosecurity is an essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak. Biosecurity guidance and a biosecurity self-assessment checklist have been published by Defra to assist all bird keepers in instigating and maintaining good biosecurity including compliance with the mandatory AIPZ measures which, together with further updates on the latest avian influenza situation, can be found via gov.uk/bird-flu
• Keep a close watch on their birds for any signs of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns. In Scotland, contact to the local Field Services Office. Further information available via Bird flu (avian influenza): how to spot and report it in poultry or other captive birds - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Check where disease control zones and AIPZs are located in GB and if they are in a zone on the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map. DAERA’s interactive map.  To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription service further details can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service

 3. Specific Public Information on Reporting Dead Wild Birds

• In Great Britain, members of the public should use the new online reporting system or call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77) if they find one or more dead wild birds of prey, gull, swan, goose or duck, or five or more dead wild birds of any species. APHA and their contractors then collect some of these birds and test them to help us understand what risk posed to poultry and other captive birds is through understanding how the disease is distributed geographically and in different types of wild bird, not all birds will be collected.
• Find out more on disposing of dead wild birds not required for surveillance in our Removing and disposing of dead wild birds - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) guidance.

For further information, contact https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-outbreaks/

UPDATE 17 FEBRUARY 2023

Changes to Wild Bird Reporting Threshold

The risk of avian influenza continues with outbreaks being reported across the UK, and a confirmed outbreak in Stirling this week.  There continues to be  no reported cases in domestic or farmed poultry in Argyll and Bute, although there are reports of dead wild bird carcases in some coastlines.

A further change is that the UK announced on the 15 February changes to the wild bird reporting threshold. You are now advised that if you find a single dead bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull, or five or more dead wild birds of any other species at the same time, you should report them to: Report dead wild birds - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).. Alternatively, you can phone the GB phone helpline: 03459 33 55 77. If you wish to submit a report without providing contact details, then the telephone helpline should be used. You must be 18 or over to use this service to report dead wild birds.

Advice:

1. The risk of outbreaks in Argyll and Bute remains a possibility and poultry keepers (domestic and commercial)  should ensure that they continue to follow strict biosecurity measures. This remains a legal requirement.
2. Members of the public should not touch or pick up a dead, wild bird, but leave in situ. The Council is following this advice and is not uplifting any reported dead bird carcases from shorelines. It is recognised that some landowners may choose to do so and in these instances, the guidance associated with clean-up and disposal, should be followed. Responding to requests from landowners  regarding advice posters to display, the DEFRA notice should be used.

UPDATE 26 JANUARY 2023

The risk of avian influenza continues with outbreaks being reported across the UK, and a number of outbreaks in Scotland affecting Aberdeenshire, Highland, Clackmannan and Fife. There continues to be  no reported cases in domestic or farmed poultry in Argyll and Bute, although there was a recent  article in recent local press, reporting  high levels of fatalities in wild migratory geese on Islay.

The risk of outbreaks in Argyll and Bute remains a possibility and poultry keepers (domestic and commercial)  should ensure that they continue to follow strict biosecurity measures. This remains a legal requirement.

Members of the public should not touch or pick up a dead, wild bird, but leave in situ. The Council is following this advice and is not uplifting any reported dead bird carcases from shorelines. It is recognised that some landowners may choose to do so and in these instances, the guidance associated with clean-up and disposal, should be followed. Responding to requests from landowners  regarding advice posters to display, the DEFRA notice should be used.

UPDATE: 14 DECEMBER 2022

The risk of avian influenza continues with outbreaks being reported across the UK, and outbreaks confirmed in Aberdeenshire. It is essential that we all remain vigilant in trying to minimise the risk of outbreaks in Argyll and Bute by:

Poultry keepers (domestic and commercial)  should ensure that they continue to follow strict biosecurity measures. This remains a legal requirement.

Members of the public should not touch or pick up a dead, wild bird, but leave in situ. The Council is following this advice and is not uplifting dead bird carcases from shorelines. It is recognised that some landowners may choose to do so and in these instances, the guidance associated with clean-up and disposal, should be followed. Responding to requests from landowners  regarding advice posters to display, the DEFRA notice should be used.

New developments/advice

On the 13 December 2022, APHA released a new online reporting system for dead wild birds and have updated their posters for use. Argyll and Bute council encourages the use of the following:

The new online reporting tool for dead wild bird finds, this covers the whole of Great Britain.

Use of the posters to display in public areas have been updated.

UPDATE 17 OCTOBER 2022

Avian Flu Bio-Security Requirements

The Government has put in place requirements for bio-security measures to attempt to control the spread of avian influenza. Information below:-

It is a legal requirement for all bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity measures 

Following an increase in the number of detections of avian influenza (AI) in wild birds and on commercial premises, the Chief Veterinary Officers from England, Scotland and Wales have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across Great Britain to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading amongst poultry and captive birds.

This means that from midday today, Monday 17 October, it will be a legal requirement for all bird keepers in Great Britain to follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks from the threat of avian flu.

In a joint statement the Chief Veterinary Officers for England, Scotland and Wales said:

"Bird keepers have faced the largest ever outbreak of avian flu this year and with winter brings an even more increased risk to flocks as migratory birds return to the United Kingdom. Scrupulous biosecurity and hygiene measures is the best form of defence, which is why we have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across Great Britain, meaning that all bird keepers must take action to help prevent the disease spreading to more poultry and other domestic birds. The introduction of an AIPZ means regardless of whether you keep a few birds or thousands, you are legally required to meet enhanced biosecurity requirements to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease."

Keepers with more than 500 birds will need to restrict access for non-essential people on their sites, workers will need to change clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures and site vehicles will need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

Backyard owners with smaller numbers of poultry including chickens, ducks and geese must also take steps to limit the risk of the disease spreading to their animals.

The introduction of an AIPZ follows a decision to raise the risk level for avian influenza incursion in wild birds in Great Britain from ‘medium’ to ‘high’. For poultry and captive birds the risk level has been raised from ‘medium’ to ‘high’ at premises where biosecurity is below the required standards, and from ‘low’ to ‘medium’ where stringent biosecurity measures are applied.

The nationwide AIPZ builds on the additional biosecurity measures that were brought in last week as part of the regional housing order which covers Norfolk, Suffolk and parts of Essex.

The AIPZ, now in force across Great Britain, does not include a nationwide requirement to house birds. However, this is being kept under constant review.

The AIPZ will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of bird flu.

Find out more

For more information please see the press release on GOV.UK.

UPDATE 20 SEPTEMBER 2022

Briefing: Avian influenza continues to be an issue in the UK, with 3 outbreaks being identified in the south of England over the weekend.

There are no reported cases or outbreaks in Argyll and Bute, and reports of dead bird carcases being washed onto our shores are reducing

The current restrictions on poultry shows and gatherings will remain in place for the foreseeable future

Advice: The public and poultry keepers are asked to continue to be vigilant and continue with measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

Good biosecurity is recommended for poultry keepers to protect their poultry from contact with migratory wild birds and to adopt these as best practice all year round.

This advice is detailed in the updates below or via Avian influenza (bird flu) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Please note that this page will be updated when there is significant changes to announce, and otherwise, please refer to the government website or for specific questions, email animalhealth@argyll-bute.gov.uk

UPDATE 17 AUGUST 2022

GB-wide AIPZ lifted at 12:00 noon on 16 August 2022

Scottish Ministers lifted the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) on Tuesday 16 August 2022 mirroring the lifting of the AIPZ by Defra (England) and the Welsh Government, and so the AIPZ has now been lifted across Great Britain simultaneously.  Whilst avian influenza ( HPAI H5N1) is present in seabird colonies around the UK coast, it is considered that the overall wild bird risk is now sufficiently decoupled from the risk of exposure to poultry,  the risk of exposure to poultry has been reduced to LOW. The risk of incursion into wild bird populations remains at MEDIUM.

The lifting of the AIPZ does not mean the risk of avian influenza has gone away for keepers of these birds, nor does it mean that there will be no more confirmed cases at poultry or other captive bird premises in Scotland or dead wild bird carcases being washed ashore. Therefore, good biosecurity is still vital in ensuring that the spread of the virus is mitigated as much as is possible and previous advice issued remains in place:

1. DEFRA recommend that you do not touch or pick up a dead, wild bird, but leave in situ. The Council is following this advice and is not uplifting dead bird carcases from shorelines. It is recognised that some landowners may choose to do so and in these instances, the guidance associated with clean-up and disposal, should be followed. Responding to requests from landowners  regarding advice posters to display, the DEFRA notice should be used.
2. Bird keepers are encouraged to continue to implement the biosecurity measures within the current AIPZ and to adopt these as best practice all year round.

Given the unprecedented levels of infection across the UK during this outbreak season, and the continued uncertainty in terms of risk of exposure to wild birds, the current restrictions on poultry shows and gatherings will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

For more information see Avian influenza (bird flu) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk

 

UPDATE 9 AUGUST 2022

1. There continues to be reports of dead bird carcases being washed across Scotland, and on our western shores (Kintyre, Islay, Gigha, Mid Argyll and Mull). Like other areas in Scotland, numbers are reducing but the impact of the virus has been devastating.
2. DEFRA recommend that you do not touch or pick up a dead, wild bird, but leave in situ. The Council is following this advice and is not uplifting dead bird carcases from shorelines. It is recognised that some landowners may choose to do so  and in these instances, the guidance associated with clean-up and disposal, should be followed. Responding to requests from landowners  regarding advice posters to display, the DEFRA notice should be used.
3. The Council have been notified  of a positive case of avian influenza in a dead white tail eagle carcase collected from Mull.
4. There are unsubstantiated reports that members of the public may be collecting dead bird carcases and leaving them for collection. This is discouraged and the best advice is to leave them in situ and not to touch them, unless they are being collected and disposed of in accordance with DEFRA guidance. Whilst unsightly, with the risk of viable virus reduces through sunlight and increasing temperatures
5. Poultry keepers are advised to maintain good biosecurity measures to protect your poultry from disease
6. Specific contact has been made with commercial poultry businesses to discuss the situation and their arrangements.
7. Avian influenza remains a  low risk to public health, but the Council advises the public and poultry keepers to follow DEFRA guidance:
8. The Council will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates via social media and the council's website.

For more information see Avian influenza (bird flu) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk

UPDATE 25 JULY 2022

1. There are continuing reports of wild bird carcasses being washed ashore in areas of Argyll and Bute, including Kintyre, Islay, Gigha and other west coast areas. Other local authorities are also affected including South and North Ayrshire, Fife, Shetland and Orkney and Highland Councils. These incidents have been reported to DEFRA in accordance with national guidance who are responsible for the sampling and analysis of bird carcasses.
2. The council received a report on the 22 July 2022 of positive avian influenza in 4 wild bird carcasses on Islay. The landowner has been advised.
3. We will continue to do all that we as a council can do to support the area, this does not include the uplift of dead wild bird carcasses. The council have no statutory responsibilities to do so, other than their duties as a landowner.
4. Local authorities are represented on the new national avian influenza taskforce to review the current situation with the national outbreak and coordinate actions with other agencies.
5. Whilst this is low risk to public health, the Council advise the public and poultry keepers to follow this DEFRA guidance:

Advice for the Public

• Do not pick up or touch sick, dying or dead birds, and keep pets away from them.
• If you find three dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks), a single dead bird of prey, or five or more dead wild birds of any other species (including gulls) at the same place at the same time, you should report them to Defra’s national GB telephone helpline: 03459 33 55 77
• Where dead wild birds are not required for surveillance purposes, it is the landowner’s responsibility to safely dispose of the carcasses. 
• Bird keepers should follow good biosecurity measures at premises where poultry are kept 
• You can find more information about avian flu here: Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Poultry Keepers

• Poultry keepers who are in control of 50 or more birds are obliged by law to register their flocks regardless of whether they are domestic or commercial, however, keepers with less than 50 birds are  advised to register their poultry and captive birds on the GB Poultry Register.  This will bring them into the information matrix to ensure that they receive up-to-date information on disease alerts.
• Maintain good biosecurity measures to protect your poultry from disease

Landowners. Disposal of dead wild birds found on private property

DEFRA recommend that you do not touch or pick up a dead, wild bird, but leave it in situ. However, the Council recognises that you may choose to dispose of the dead, wild bird, and encourages you to adhere to the guidance associated with clean-up and disposal, as follows:

Household or municipal waste refuse:

• if possible, wear disposable protective gloves when picking up and handling dead wild birds (if disposable gloves are not available, a plastic bag can be used as a make-shift glove). When the dead bird has been picked up, the bag can be turned back on itself and tied. It should then be placed in a second plastic bag, tied and disposed of in the normal household waste (lidded bin outside)
• place the dead bird in a suitable plastic bag, preferably leak proof. Care should be taken not to contaminate the outside of the bag
• tie the bag and place it in a second plastic bag
• remove gloves by turning them inside out and then place them in the second plastic bag. Tie the bag and dispose of it in the normal household refuse bin

Burial:

• the dead wild bird can be buried, but not in a plastic bag
• the depth of the burial hole must be sufficient to prevent animals scavenging and gaining access to it – at least 60cm deep is advised
• location must not be near any watercourses, or likely to contaminate local water supplies

The council will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates via social media and the council's website.

For more information see Avian influenza (bird flu) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk

 

Update - 15th July 2022

DEFRA has advised the council this afternoon of a positive case of avian influenza in a wild bird carcass on Islay. DEFRA is responsible for sampling and analysis of dead birds. The council has made them aware of reports of dead birds along the Kintyre, Islay and other west coast shorelines. We will continue to do all that we as a council can do to support the area. Whilst this is low risk to public health, the council advise the public and poultry keepers to follow this DEFRA guidance:

 

Advice for the Public

• Do not pick up or touch sick, dying or dead birds, and keep pets away from them.
• If you find three dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks), a single dead bird of prey, or five or more dead wild birds of any other species (including gulls) at the same place at the same time, you should report them to Defra’s national GB telephone helpline: 03459 33 55 77
• Where dead wild birds are not required for surveillance purposes, it is the landowner’s responsibility to safely dispose of the carcasses. 
• Bird keepers should follow good biosecurity measures at premises where poultry are kept 
• You can find more information about avian flu here: Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

What actions do Poultry Keepers require to take?

• Poultry keepers who are in control of 50 or more birds are obliged by law to register their flocks regardless of whether they are domestic or commercial, however, keepers with less than 50 birds are  advised to register their poultry and captive birds on the GB Poultry Register.  This will bring them into the information matrix to ensure that they receive up-to-date information on disease alerts.
• Maintain good biosecurity measures to protect your poultry from disease

 

Update - 7th July 2022

Outbreaks of avian influenza in the UK continue and Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), Sheila Voas, confirmed on the 6 July 2022 that birds in a small commercial free-range backyard flock of chickens at a premises near Birsay, Orkney Islands, have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1.  In order to limit further spread of disease, appropriate restrictions have been imposed, and a 3 km Protection Zone and 10 km Surveillance Zone have been declared, which took effect at 18:50 on 06 July 2022.  Within these zones, a range of different controls and restrictions are implemented.  These include, restrictions on the movement of poultry, carcases, eggs, used poultry litter and manure.

The wider UK outbreak is the largest ever and has involved cases of HPA1 H5N1 across the UK affecting 101 premises in England, 11 in Scotland, 5 in Wales and 6 in Northern Ireland since the first case.

The current risk of incursion of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 infection in wild birds is at MEDIUM.  The risk of poultry and captive bird exposure to HPAI H5 across Great Britain is at MEDIUM where biosecurity is sub-optimal, and is at LOW where stringent biosecurity measures are applied.

From an Argyll and Bute perspective, there are no reports  suspected or confirmed cases but we need to remain vigilant. The Council's animal health and welfare team are monitoring the situation and you are advised to have regard to the following advice:

• The advice from Public Health Scotland that the risk to the general public’s health from avian influenza is very low.  However, the risk to people with intensive exposure to infected birds is considered to be low.  Food Standards Scotland advises that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers, and it does not affect the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.
• Producers and bird keepers are reminded that they are legally required to comply with mandatory biosecurity measures of the Avian Influenza Protection Zone (AIPZ), regardless of the number of birds being kept.  Keepers who are concerned about the health or welfare of their flock should seek veterinary advice immediately.
• Wild Birds - Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people, so do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. In Great Britain, if you find three dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks), a single dead bird of prey, or five or more dead wild birds of any other species (including gulls) at the same place at the same time, you should report them to Defra’s national GB telephone helpline: 03459 33 55 77.  It is advisable that you do not touch these birds.

Further advice for keepers can be found via the link avian influenza web pages.