UK Governments Take Precautionary Step On Bird Flu

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The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation has informed members that because of outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 (bird flu) in several countries across Europe, the UK Government and the Governments of Wales and Scotland have put in place, as a precautionary measure, orders that require, by law, the keepers of captive birds to house their birds indoors where practicable – or to keep them separate from wild birds. No cases of H5N8 have been found in the UK.

The orders will run for 30 days from 6 December 2016 until 6 January 2017. The declared Prevention Zones cover the whole of England, Wales and Scotland.

As a result of the orders, poultry keepers must now house their flocks indoors where practicable, or keep them separate from wild birds.

In the case of captive gamebirds – as well as geese and other captive birds where housing is recognised by the authorities as being less practicable – steps must be taken to keep these birds separate from wild birds and to ensure heightened biosecurity measures are in place.

Full information including the details of practical biosecurity measures can be found by clicking here

Statements from the Welsh Government on bird flu can be found by clicking here and from the Scottish Government by clicking here

A spokesman for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation said: “It is important to emphasise that no case of H5N8 has been discovered in the UK and the orders are a precautionary measure to prevent infection by wild birds. Relatively few gamekeepers will have captive gamebirds at this time of year, but those that do are required by law to take practical steps to stop wild birds mixing with captive game, and to place extra emphasis on safeguarding biosecurity. The NGO will continue to monitor the situation on behalf of its members and will provide further updates as necessary.”

Notes to Editors

The National Gamekeepers' Organisation represents the gamekeepers of England and Wales. It defends and promotes gamekeeping, gamekeepers and ensures high standards throughout the profession. It was founded in 1997 by a group of gamekeepers who felt that their profession was threatened by public misunderstanding and poor representation. The NGO has around 15,000 members.

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