Bird Flu Outbreak Confirmed in Exeter, Devon - Protection Zones Established
Exeter, Devon is now subject to strict control measures following the confirmation of a bird flu outbreak. Four active protection zones – 3km protection zones and 3km temporary control zones – have been implemented across Devon as of today, according to the Department for Surroundings, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
The outbreaks pose a risk to poultry and other captive birds, prompting DEFRA to enforce stringent biosecurity protocols to limit the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). These measures impact bird owners and farmers within the designated zones,and are intended to protect the wider poultry population and prevent disruption to the food chain.
Within 3km protection and temporary control zones, the following rules are in effect:
adherence to rules applicable to 10km surveillance and temporary control zones.
Mandatory housing of poultry and captive birds.
Strict instructions from veterinary inspectors for bird carcass disposal.
Restrictions on the spreading or removal of poultry litter, manure, or slurry.
Prohibition of poultry/captive bird movement without a license (exceptions for pets). Restrictions on egg movement without a license (table eggs to wholesale/retail for direct consumer sale permitted).
Restrictions on poultry meat movement unless following case declaration rules.
Within 10km surveillance and temporary control zones, the following rules are in effect:
Record-keeping of all poultry/egg movements (excluding table eggs to wholesale/retail).
Restrictions on the movement of poultry, captive birds, and mammals to/from premises with birds without a license (exceptions for pets).
Restrictions on the spreading or removal of poultry litter, manure, or slurry.