What does the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (Aipz) mean for poultry keepers?

Due to the recent cases of High Path Avian Influenza (H5N1) in both captive/commercial poultry and in the wild bird population, the governments of England, Wales and Scotland have declared Great Britain an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ)

What this means is that all keepers of poultry of any numbers and species must implement enhanced biosecurity measures to control the spread of the disease.

It also means that poultry gatherings are now prohibited. An AIPZ is one step below from a full housing order which may come into force if numbers of outbreaks continue to rise. DEFRA have issued guidance to poultry keepers on what measures they should take.

If 50 or more birds are kept (including game birds) keepers are legally required to register their poultry with the APHA, a voluntarily register is also available for those with less than 50 birds (recommended)  – guidance can be found here:

 Biosecurity at this time is critically important. Attention to detail and discipline from     everyone working and visiting poultry units will play a key role in its protection.

 Feed areas need to be clean, and it is crucial that facilities are available to enable vehicles   and people that do need to visit the unit are cleaned and disinfected.

The Wynnstay Poultry Team are available to support poultry customers to ensure the correct procedures and measures are implemented on farm.