A bird flu prevention zone has been declared across England, Wales, and Scotland in response to the rising number of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases. The zone enforces strict hygiene standards around domesticated birds to curb the spread of the virus. Despite the increasing cases, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) assures that the risk to humans remains low, and chicken and eggs are safe to consume if properly cooked.
The recent surge in cases is alarming. Between October 2021 and January 2022, there were over 70 instances of bird flu detected in poultry and captive birds. This year, since the annual winter recording season began in October, 25 farm outbreaks have been confirmed. Regions including Shropshire, North Yorkshire, East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk are under mandatory housing rules requiring farmers to keep their birds caged.
The National Farmers' Union has raised concerns over the current preventive measures, emphasizing the need for a workable avian influenza vaccination plan for the UK. Vaccinating poultry against avian influenza is currently not permitted in the UK. Accordingly, Defra has established a taskforce comprising government and poultry industry representatives to explore the potential use of vaccines. The taskforce's report is expected later this year.
"Essential that Defra refocuses efforts," said The National Farmers' Union.
Paul Kelly, an Essex turkey farmer, expressed his frustration over what he perceives as a lack of urgency in addressing the situation.
"The foot has been taken off the gas," remarked Kelly.
Biosecurity restrictions have been implemented across England, Wales, and Scotland as part of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone. Earlier this week, a case of the H5N1 avian influenza virus was confirmed in a farm worker in the West Midlands region, highlighting the virus's presence and potential risks it poses to those in close contact with infected birds.
Research from the UK's Royal Veterinary College, in collaboration with institutions in China, suggests wild birds might be linked to changes in how the virus evolves. This discovery underscores the complexity of managing avian influenza and the importance of comprehensive preventive strategies.
The government and poultry industry are grappling with these challenges while striving to protect both the agriculture sector and public health. The focus remains on ensuring stringent biosecurity measures and exploring viable solutions like vaccination to mitigate future outbreaks.