Rising cases of bird flu across the north of England have prompted stricter measures to be rolled out across a wider area.
Avian Influenza housing measures are being extended to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease.
It means that from midnight on Monday, April 7, keepers in Cumbria, County Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside must house their birds and continue to follow the strictest biosecurity as required by the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone.
Cumbria’s first reported case of bird flu in 2025 was found in premises near Lazonby last week. A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone were declared surrounding the premises.
AIPZs mandating enhanced biosecurity are also in place across all of the UK.
Mandatory housing also applies in any 3km Protection Zone or 3km Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zones in force surrounding an infected premises.
The measures apply to all bird keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock and are essential to protecting birds from avian influenza, the Animal and Plant Health Agency said.
The AIPZ will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza.
The measures mean by law you must follow strict biosecurity and hygiene rules, including:
- keep ducks and geese separate from other birds
- prevent contact with wild birds and rodents
- clean housing, equipment, vehicles and footwear
- keep records of bird movements, deaths and eggs
- follow additional rules if you keep more than 500 birds
- keep your birds inside – find out how to house your birds safely
- follow rules if you keep game birds
UK deputy chief veterinary officer Ele Brown said: “Due to the increasing number of bird flu cases in the north of England, particularly in regions with high-density poultry farming, we are extending housing measures to Cumbria, Durham, Northumberland and Tyneside.
“Bird keepers are urged to stay alert for any signs of disease, maintain strict biosecurity practices, and report any suspected cases of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”
The AIPZ will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review.
