The government has confirmed that the avian influenza virus was confirmed on 30th December 2021 near Romsey, in Hampshire.
Since 3rd November there have been nationwide restrictions to protect poultry from an outbreak of avian influenza (bird flu).
Anyone keeping even a few birds, including chickens, ducks and geese, is legally obliged to follow the requirements which are designed to keep domestic birds from coming into contact with wild birds, helping to keep them safe from infection.
IWC: The outbreak in Hampshire is not far away
An Isle of Wight Council spokesman said,
“Although the Island has no confirmed cases of bird flu at present, the outbreak in Hampshire is not far away.
“Bird owners so far have mostly been careful and thorough in following the requirements for feeding arrangements and biosecurity, but it is important that they are extra vigilant now, to continue protecting the welfare of both captive and wild birds.
“There is good advice available on the government website, along with the latest news on the disease.”
Very low public health risk
The UK Health Security Agency advises that the risk to public health from the virus is very low and the Food Standards Agency advises that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for UK consumers.
Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are still safe to eat.
Requirements
The UK government has declared a Nationwide Prevention Zone. This means anyone who keeps poultry (including pets) must:
- Ensure the areas where birds are kept are unattractive to wild birds, for example by netting ponds, and by removing wild bird food sources;
- Feed and water birds in enclosed areas to discourage wild birds;
- Minimise movement in and out of bird enclosures;
- Clean and disinfect footwear and keep areas where birds live clean and tidy;
- Reduce any existing contamination by cleansing and disinfecting concrete areas, and fencing off wet or boggy areas.
Check the Government guidance
The Isle of Wight Council has been contacting owners with larger flocks, but the rules apply to everybody, right across the Island, even if they only have a few birds.
Anybody who keeps poultry, including chickens, ducks and geese, should check the government Website for updates and full information on the rules.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
Image: Thomas Iversen under CC BY 2.0
