Two new outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 have been confirmed in the UK, prompting new disease control zones in Denbighshire, Wales, and West Lancashire, England.
The latest case in Wales was detected in a commercial free-range laying flock near Cynwyd, Denbighshire. Authorities declared a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone around the premises on 25 October.
The Welsh Government confirmed that strict movement controls are now in place, restricting the movement of poultry, eggs, and captive birds within the affected areas. Farmers and bird keepers are being urged to maintain the highest biosecurity standards and report any signs of illness immediately.
A separate outbreak was also confirmed in England on 24 October 2025, at a zoological collection located at a nature reserve near Burscough, West Lancashire. The infection affected other captive birds, including swans, ducks, and geese.
As a precaution, Defra has declared a 3km captive bird controlled zone around the premises on 24 October, to monitor and limit potential spread.