Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Advice
At a Glance
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HPAI cases are increasing this winter, posing serious risks to poultry businesses and public health because it is a zoonotic disease.
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APHA operates a 24/7 reporting system for dead wild birds (online or via 03459 33 55 77) to monitor and control the spread. Carcasses of certain species (birds of prey, swans, geese, ducks, gulls, or five+ other wild birds) are prioritised for collection and testing.
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AIC has biosecurity guidance when visiting farms and Members are to comply with APHA advice on safe disposal of dead birds to prevent transmission. Separate reporting arrangements apply in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Full Briefing Below
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Advice
As winter progresses, cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) continue to rise. AIC has guidance on managing biosecurity when visiting farms, which is essential to prevent becoming a source of virus transmission.
Wild birds can also contract HPAI. While some may show few symptoms, others may die, and their carcasses can act as a reservoir for the virus. To address this, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) operates a notification system for reporting dead wild birds.
You can report dead birds online 24/7 here, or by phone on 03459 33 55 77. Although any number or type of dead bird can be reported, current criteria for collection and in the current situation AIC understands that the criteria for collection and testing of carcases include:
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One or more dead bird of prey (such as an owl, hawk or buzzard),
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One or more swan, goose, duck or gull,
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Five or more wild birds of any other species
In addition to the severe financial impact on the poultry industry, it is important to remember that HPAI is a zoonotic disease (meaning it can infect humans). Therefore, APHA advice on the safe disposal of dead wild birds must be followed.
Please note: Separate reporting arrangements apply in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Authors
James McCulloch
Simon Williams
Simon Williams is Technical Manager for AIC Services. He is based at AIC Head Office, Peterborough and is responsible for the management and coordination of the FEMAS and UFAS assurance schemes as well as being the key contact for mutual recognition with European scheme owners and managing Earned Recognition relationships with UK feed and food competent authorities.
