Avian Influenza update from Denbighshire County Council

Denbighshire County Council is advising poultry and game birds owners to be aware of the potential risk of avian influenza (bird flu).

The risk of the avian influenza virus increases during the winter due to migration of waterfowl and gulls and is a highly contagious viral transmitted from bird to bird or through the environment.

The disease can affect the respiratory, digestive or nervous system of many species of birds, and common signs include a loss of appetite, swollen heads and respiratory problems which can lead to death.

Following an increased number of reported cases in Wales, from today (Thursday November 13), it will be a legal requirement for all keepers of 50 or more birds of any species to house them to reduce the spread and stop the virus.

Mandatory housing will also apply to flocks of less than 50 birds of any species if eggs or poultry products are sold or given away, due to the increased risk of disease transmission associated with trading or giving away poultry products.

The new compulsory housing measures will be incorporated into the existing Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) introduced in January. 

Denbighshire County Council would like to remind anyone who keeps poultry or game birds, including those with fewer than 50 birds, that it is a requirement to provide details of their flocks to the Poultry Register.

This will ensure that they can be contacted immediately in an avian disease outbreak so that they can take action to protect their birds at the earliest opportunity.

Poultry keepers should inspect their birds regularly for signs of the disease and separate birds that are showing signs of being affected. Any suspected cases of avian influenza should be reported immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

To report and dispose of dead birds, please call DEFRA on 03459 335577 or to register your poultry  click here  or call the GB Poultry Register Helpline, on 0800 634 1112.

For more information, please visit the link below:

https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/licences-permits-and-trading-standards/trading-standards/bird-flu-hpai-virus.aspx