Poultry and captive bird keepers across England will be required to house their birds from 13 November following an increase in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases in kept and wild birds.
The UK Chief Veterinary Officer has declared a nationwide mandatory housing order, effective from 00:01 on Friday, 13 November 2026.
The requirement applies to keepers of 50 or more birds, as well as those who sell or give away eggs, poultry products or live birds. Some exemptions will apply, including for certain zoo birds.
An England-wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), with mandatory enhanced biosecurity measures, has also been declared with immediate effect. This applies to all bird keepers, including those with commercial flocks, pet birds and small backyard flocks.
Measures include cleansing and disinfecting clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles, controlling vermin, regularly disinfecting housing and minimising contact between captive and wild birds. Feed and water must also be protected from access by wild birds.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss urged keepers to comply with the measures, remain vigilant for signs of disease and report suspected cases immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
She said the impact of an avian influenza outbreak on a flock could be “devastating”, adding that she was grateful for the continued cooperation of the poultry industry.