'Housing Order' introduced for bird owners to reduce the spread of avian flu

This mandatory housing order which came into force just after midnight is accompanied by strict biosecurity measures to protect flocks from the highly contagious disease.

This means that bird keepers must keep all birds indoors at all times. This includes anyone in Shropshire who owns any poultry, including chickens, ducks and geese with flocks smaller than 500, as well as private aviaries and people who own birds that they keep in their gardens.

This action follows the recent discovery of an avian flu outbreak in a large commercial poultry flock near Wem.

Shropshire is one of three newly designated areas nationwide facing these heightened restrictions.

The Government says that all bird keepers should remain vigilant and follow any Protection/Surveillance Zone restrictions to prevent future outbreaks. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km surveillance zone is already in force around the outbreak near Wem.

Flock keepers are being asked to look for any signs of diseases whilst ensuring good levels of biosecurity at their premises.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss said:

"Given the continued increase in the number of bird flu cases across England, we are taking further action to try and prevent the further spread of disease.

"I urge bird keepers to check which requirements apply to them, to continue to exercise robust biosecurity measures, remain alert for any signs of disease and report suspected disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency."

Councillor Chris Schofield, Shropshire Council's cabinet member for planning and regulatory services said:

“Shropshire is being added to the locations where these measures apply because we need everyone to work together to help prevent the spead of avian flu. I ask anyone involved in poultry farming in Shropshire to adhere strictly to make sure their birds are housed and they follow biosecurity measures to prevent any further spread.”