Avian influenza infections have been confirmed in a flock of 32,000 free-range laying hens in Denbighshire, prompting new control measures and urgent calls for stronger biosecurity across the poultry sector.
The Animal and Plant Health Authority (APHA) confirmed the outbreak on Sunday 25 October and has now set up a 3km protected area and 10km surveillance zone around the affected site near Cynwyd.
The case is the latest in a series of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detections that are raising concerns for producers across the UK.
In response, the British Free-Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) warned that the risk of contagion is rising rapidly as migratory birds return for the winter, and called on the government to impose immediate housing orders across the west of England.
Gary Ford from BFREPA said: “This is worrying news for the families involved and for the UK poultry sector, particularly poultry farmers in affected areas.”
“Given the worsening situation and the increased risk of disease transmission, we are calling for emergency housing orders to be implemented across the West of England.
“While housing measures alone cannot eliminate risk, they are an important step in reducing exposure and limiting the spread of this aggressive disease.”
He urged producers to remain vigilant. “We urge all poultry producers to maintain high biosecurity standards at all times and promptly report any suspected disease.
These actions, combined with housing measures, will be critical to containing and ultimately eradicating this epidemic. ”
BFREPA said it would continue to work closely with Defra and APHA to support affected farmers. “The welfare of our herds, and the livelihoods and mental health of those who care for them, remains our top priority,” Ford added.
Producers in neighboring counties are now being asked to review their biosecurity protocols and be on the lookout for signs of infection.
