Bird keepers across North Yorkshire are being urged to help prevent the spread of avian influenza after three cases were confirmed in the county.
Sites in Hackforth near Bedale, Tholthorpe near Easingwold, and Knayton near Thirsk have been affected by the disease since the start of October.
The outbreaks have had a serious impact on poultry farms, with culls carried out and strict biosecurity measures enforced.
The virus, which spreads from wild birds to domestic flocks, tends to surge in the colder months due to migratory patterns, putting the county’s farming sector, and particularly its commercial operations, at increased risk.
In response to the outbreaks, North Yorkshire Council have activated our Notifiable Disease Action Plan.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is managing infected sites, carrying out culls and deep cleans, while the council’s animal health officers are working with local communities to ensure compliance with control zone requirements.
Executive member for managing our environment, Cllr Richard Foster, said:
“Control zones are now in place around the affected sites, and it’s vital that bird keepers understand and follow the requirements within these areas.
“Compliance is essential to protect both commercial and backyard flocks and to support the wider disease control effort.”
Residents will notice road signs and public information posters marking bird flu control zones.
Cllr Foster said:
“These are in place to inform bird keepers of their responsibilities.
“I urge all keepers to stay alert for signs of disease and to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity to protect their birds and prevent further spread.”
Disease control zones require bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity rules, maintain records of any poultry egg transportation, not organise or attend bird gatherings and keep any birds housed.
In addition to local control zones, Great Britain remains under an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), requiring bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity rules.
From 6th November, mandatory housing will apply across England for anyone keeping 50 or more birds, or any number of poultry kept for the purposes of selling or distributing eggs, poultry products or live birds.
If people keep fewer than 50 birds and their eggs or poultry products are for personal use, they are not required to be housed. However, strict biosecurity measures still apply.
The risk to public health from the virus is very low, and properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
However, it is important that people do not pick up sick or dead birds.
Members of the public can report dead wild waterfowl, such as swans, geese, ducks, or other birds such as gulls and birds of prey to Defra or on 03459 33 55 77.
Council's "patch up" approach to filling potholes criticised
Accessibility boost as new changing places toilet opens in Malham
Tourist tax would be 'total game changer', says Mayor
Skipton Charity golf day to be held for 2025 Pride of Britain winner
North Yorkshire taxi drivers call for fare increase to offset Iran War fuel increases
Devolution will fail if decisions are York-centric, say angry North Yorkshire councillors
Craven Lawn Tennis Club to open grounds for fundraising weekend
Tory councillor used photo of tragedy which claimed the lives of 116 children to make point on social media
Airedale Hospital's cancer team launch radiotherapy website
Skipton MP raises concerns over changes to 580 bus service
Lothersdale and Glusburn students to climb Yorkshire Three Peaks for Airedale Hospital
Police investigate assault in Skipton
Glusburn Community & Arts Centre calls for funds to keep the lights on
Northern passengers reminded some train times will change from Sunday
Jumble sale to be held in aid of woman's cancer journey
Thornton Hall Country Park Continues to Grow with New Team Members
Skipton Boxing Club nominated for 'Local Hero' award
Skipton Beer Festival shares 2026 lineup
Clubberthon raises over £7,000 for hospice charity
Your Skipton collaborates with Skipton BID for first visual podcast
