Bird flu protections are due to be lifted later this month, but birdkeepers have been urged to remain vigilant to prevent further outbreaks of the disease.
This provision came into effect on November 7 last year. make it a legal requirement Keep animals indoors and follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect the flock.
From April 18, birders will once again be allowed to keep birds outdoors, and eggs laid by poultry raised outdoors can once again be labeled as “free range.”
However, if the birds are kept in designated protected areas, the rules will remain the same.
The risk level has been set to medium for areas described by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as having “poor” biosecurity measures, while all other locations have received a “low” risk assessment.
Aviators will now have a week to prepare their outdoor enclosures, which includes sanitizing surfaces and fencing ponds.
There have been more than 330 confirmed cases of bird flu in the UK since October 2021, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning that while rare, Citizens should remain vigilant Regarding the transmission of bird flu to humans.
Although just this past February, an 11-year-old Cambodian girl died of illness.
Last week, scientists from the government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) told Sky News Fears of another summer of infections Before the seabirds return to the UK for nesting season.
How big is the threat of bird flu?
Dr Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer, said: “While the removal of mandatory housing measures is good news for bird keepers, strict biosecurity remains the most critical form of defense to help keep birds safe.
“We are able to take this action thanks to the hard work of all the bird breeders and veterinarians who have played their part in keeping our flocks safe this winter.
“However, the unprecedented nature of this outbreak proves that it is more important than ever for bird keepers to remain vigilant for signs of disease and maintain strict biosecurity standards.”
Those who keep birds are urged to register their flocks.
The UKHSA said the threat to humans remained low, as was the risk to UK food safety.