Avian influenza prevention zone will cover all England
5th November 2025
DEFRA confirmed that due to the escalating number and expanding area of cases of avian influenza, the prevention zone with mandatory housing measures will be extended to the whole of England.
The extension will apply to all keepers of over 50 birds and all keepers who sell or give away eggs or poultry products (even if they keep fewer than 50 birds).
These measures will come into force from 00:01 on Thursday, 6th November.
The AIPZ requiring mandatory biosecurity measures remains in place across GB, DEFRA added.
The main causes of bird flu in poultry and other captive birds are contact with:
- wild birds, in particular waterfowl such as geese, ducks and swans and gulls
- faeces from infected birds
- dirty footwear, clothing and vehicles and equipment.
DEFRA underlined that bird keepers must follow stringent biosecurity measures, which can be found here.
Poultry and most captive birds cannot be vaccinated against bird flu. Vaccination is not a routine measure to control the disease.
Bird flu mainly affects birds. It can affect humans and other mammals. The UK Health Security Agency advises that the risk from this bird flu strain is very low.
The Food Standards Agency said that it is safe to eat properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs.
READ MORE: DEFRA introduces Avian Influenza Prevention Zone after rise in bird flu cases
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