Bird Flu Restrictions Set To End On 9 May

Friday, 22 April 2022 16:19

Bird flu restrictions in Jersey will be lifted on Monday 9 May, as long as the situation doesn't suddenly deteriorate before then.

Strict measures were introduced last month after a third case of avian influenza was detected in the island.

A red-breasted goose that died at Jersey Zoo in February tested positive for bird flu in early March.

Two dead buzzards in Jersey also tested positive for the virus in February.

No more cases have been found since.

For now, birdkeepers still have to house their flocks or keep them separate from wilds birds.

The avian influenza 'Prevention Zone' is still in force across the island and keepers must make sure poultry and other captive birds are provided with feed and water which is not accessible to wild birds.

Some other restrictions have been lifted with immediate effect.

The 3km 'Protection Zone' around a previous positive bird flu case and the wider 'Surveillance Zone' covering the rest of the island no longer exist.

"The situation is being monitored and disease surveillance and testing is ongoing. I greatly appreciate the continuing efforts of bird keepers to help stop the spread of avian influenza and am grateful for the public’s reports of dead wild birds.

While we must not be complacent, I am pleased to be able to lift some restrictions today and hope to be able to remove the housing or separation requirement on 9 May, all being well." - Alistair Breed, Chief Veterinary Officer.