Bird owners in North Yorkshire are urged to enhance biosecurity and report sick birds to prevent avian influenza spread
York: Bird owners in North Yorkshire need to step up. They must follow new rules to help stop avian influenza from spreading. This includes keeping records and improving biosecurity measures.
Recently, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) was set up. It covers York and North Yorkshire, along with areas like Hull and Lincolnshire. This zone aims to protect local birds.
Cllr Greg White from North Yorkshire Council emphasized the importance of these measures. He said they are crucial for protecting birds in the area. The virus can cause significant costs, both financially and emotionally.
He urged bird owners to register their birds if they haven’t done so. Reporting sick birds is also vital to prevent the disease from spreading further.
The AIPZ requires all bird owners to enhance biosecurity and keep their birds indoors. These rules will stay in place until further notice, as the government monitors the situation.
Since October 2024, all poultry and captive birds must be registered. The risk to public health is low, and properly cooked poultry is safe to eat.
However, people should avoid touching sick or dead birds. Recently, there have been 25 confirmed avian influenza cases in England and one in Scotland.
Symptoms of the virus include swollen heads, loss of appetite, and respiratory issues. If you see any sick birds, check the government website for more guidance.
Bird owners must register online if they haven’t done so yet. If anyone finds dead wild birds, they should report them to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Lastly, if you suspect your birds are sick, report it immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.
