06 September 2022
All birdkeepers in Jersey must house their birds from this Wednesday (7 September 2022) to help prevent further outbreaks of Avian Influenza (bird flu).
Following an increase in reports of dead or sick wild birds, and after the recently confirmed cases at a farm in St Peter and property in St Lawrence, the whole Island is being declared a Prevention Zone.
It means enclosures and runs must be completely covered with a solid or impermeable roof so that wild bird faeces cannot enter. Food and water should be placed away from the perimeter fencing, which should also be vermin proof. Defra-approved disinfectant foot dips must also be placed at entrances and exits.
Minister for the Environment, Deputy Jonathan Renouf, said: “The virus is causing mass mortalities and suffering in flocks, and we must now step-up measures Island-wide to protect both the birds and the livelihoods of commercial farmers.
“Making housing mandatory for all flocks, regardless of where they are or the size of the flock, is not a decision we have taken lightly. However, bird flu has the potential to wipe out huge numbers of birds so we must act now to do everything we can to minimise the risks of infection. The key is keeping poultry away from contact with wild birds.
“I urge all keepers to follow the restrictions, to house their birds, and to continue to follow good biosecurity measures to help us ensure the situation doesn’t further escalate.”
Those who come across dead or sick birds are asked to call 441600.
The UK Health Security Agency has said that Avian Influenza is primarily a disease of birds and advises that the risk to public health from bird flu is low.
gov.je