Avian influenza cases are continuing to rise across the UK, with 90 confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 recorded so far in the 2025 to 2026 outbreak season, according to the Defra.
On 19 January, highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 was detected in captive birds and commercial poultry near Bacton in Suffolk, leading to the declaration of new protection and surveillance zones. All poultry on the affected premises will be humanely culled.
Further cases were confirmed on 15 January at a large commercial poultry site near York in North Yorkshire and at another premises near Penicuik in the Scottish Borders. Protection and surveillance zones were established in both areas, and all poultry on the infected sites will be culled as part of disease control measures.
A low pathogenic avian influenza H5 case was also confirmed at a large commercial poultry premises near Mundford in Norfolk. This remains the only low pathogenic case recorded in the UK during the current outbreak season.
Since the start of the 2025 to 2026 season, England has recorded 72 cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza and one low pathogenic case. Scotland and Wales have each recorded seven highly pathogenic cases, while Northern Ireland has reported four. In total, the UK has recorded 90 highly pathogenic cases and one low pathogenic case.
Great Britain remains under an avian influenza prevention zone, with strict biosecurity measures in place. In England and Wales, mandatory housing measures continue to apply, requiring most poultry to be kept indoors to reduce the risk of infection.
The government is urging bird keepers to remain vigilant, follow all biosecurity requirements and report any suspected cases promptly as the outbreak continues.