Bird Flu Protection Zones Activated Across UK Farms Amid Outbreaks

Several regions including parts of the UK and South Africa have confirmed outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1, leading to the establishment of control zones with strict biosecurity measures to contain the virus. In the UK, farms near Woodbridge in Suffolk and Banff in Aberdeenshire have been subject to 3km protection zones and 10km surveillance zones, with culling of affected birds initiated to prevent further spread. Authorities emphasize that while avian influenza poses a significant threat to bird populations, the risk to human health and food safety remains very low. In Australia, the government is proactively investing over $100 million to enhance early detection and preparedness against H5 avian influenza, including funding to protect captive populations of threatened bird species through breeding programs. South African officials have reported first cases in the Western Cape, with measures such as culling and farm biosecurity being implemented, and public urged to report sick or dead wild birds to help monitor the disease. Across all affected regions, poultry keepers are urged to maintain stringent controls on bird movements and hygiene practices to mitigate the impact of this contagious disease on agriculture and wildlife.