Three new avian flu cases confirmed in a single day
20th May 2022
Defra has confirmed H5N1 at premises in Suffolk and Nottinghamshire.
Nearly three weeks after the housing ban was lifted, three new cases of avian influenza H5N1 were confirmed on 19th May.
Two of the cases were in Suffolk, at premises near Redgrave, Mid Suffolk, and Market Weston, West Suffolk. The third was confirmed in poultry at a premises near Southwell, Newark and Sherwood, Nottinghamshire.
Since the outbreak began in October 2021, there have been a record 98 cases of H5N1 in England, nine in Scotland, five in Wales and six in Northern Ireland – making it the worst outbreak the UK has ever seen.
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains in force across the UK until further notice, with only the housing measures aspect lifted.
While birds are allowed to range outside, all bird keepers (whether they have pet birds, a commercial or a backyard flock) must continue to take effective and precautionary biosecurity measures.
While the risk levels have reduced, Defra says infection may still be present in the environment.
For biosecurity information visit www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#biosecurity
