Measures introduced to halt the spread of Avian Flu
Trading Standards06 November 2025
North Northamptonshire Council is reminding anyone who keeps more than 50 birds that they must house their birds from Thursday 6 November to minimise the risk of avian flu.
The new housing rules also apply to anyone who sells or gives eggs away.
A countrywide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) is also in place and requires all keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock to undertake enhanced biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease.
Under the AIPZ, all bird keepers in England whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock must:
- keep feed and bedding inside
- cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
- reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products
- carry out effective vermin control in any areas where poultry and captive birds are kept
- thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing and concrete walkways on a continuous basis
- keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points
- make your premises unattractive to wild birds (e.g. use bird scarers, foils or streamers)
Keepers should familiarise themselves with the steps they need to take to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading and remain vigilant for signs of disease and report it to keep your birds safe.
Anyone who suspects any type of bird flu in poultry or captive birds must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.
This is an understandably worrying time for anyone who keeps birds. We’re encouraging all keepers across North Northamptonshire to take a moment to review the latest Defra guidance and ensure the right steps are being followed.Cllr Kirk Harrison, the council’s Executive Member for Regulatory Services
Simple actions taken now can make a real difference in helping to reduce the risk and limit the spread of Avian Flu.
For all the latest information in relation to the spread of Avian Flu, including the housing measures which have been brought in across the country and also for information on how you can help to protect your birds please visit central Government’s Avian flu information.
Following cases in of bird flu identified in the wild bird population locally, residents should be aware and not touch or pick up any dead or sick birds. Instead, call the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 or report it online via the Government website.