HPAI H5N1 has been confirmed in a backyard flock of chickens at a premises near Evercreech, Somerset. A 3km Captive Bird (Monitoring) Controlled Zone was declared around the premises on 28 August 2025.
Under the new measures, poultry keepers within the zone must house or isolate birds to prevent contact with wild birds; maintain detailed movement and visitor records; immediately report increased mortality, reduced egg production, or feed/water intake changes; and clean and disinfect vehicles and equipment after transporting birds or potentially contaminated material.
The declaration also prohibits the release of game birds and any gathering of poultry, such as markets or shows.