The UK government has introduced an immediate ban on bird gatherings in England, including fairs, markets, and shows, as part of efforts to halt the spread of avian influenza. The ban, effective from midday on Monday, applies to various bird species, including ducks, geese, swans, pheasants, turkeys, chickens, quail, and guinea fowl, according to a statement from the Environment Ministry.
This decision follows the rapid spread of the virus across multiple regions of the country. The government defines “bird gatherings” as events like fairs, markets, sales, exhibitions, and other premises involved in dealing or internet sales of birds. The ban also covers vehicles transporting live birds from multiple locations.
There have been 27 confirmed cases of bird flu in England, and one in Scotland, during the latest outbreak. Recently, infected poultry were found on a commercial property in Norfolk, eastern England, leading to the culling of the affected birds. The virus primarily spreads through droppings, saliva, or contaminated food and water.
Currently, bird flu vaccinations are prohibited in the UK, with the exception of zoos. However, several farming organizations have urged the government to reconsider and allow inoculations to protect poultry.
Health authorities have reported only one rare human case of bird flu in the ongoing outbreak and emphasized that the risk to public health remains very low. Nonetheless, farmers are growing increasingly concerned about the potential spread of the disease.
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