Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ)
The AIPZ and ban on poultry gatherings in place from 17 October 2022 was lifted at 00.01 on Friday 2 June 2023.
The ongoing NI Veterinary Risk Assessment (VRA) has been updated in light of the recent detection of HPAI H5N1 in black headed gulls in five locations across NI. There is now an increasing likelihood of incursion into kept flocks, albeit with a high level of uncertainty, in consideration of the relatively limited number of reports.
Excellent levels of biosecurity remain the most effective protection against an incursion of avian influenza.
See DAERA press release for further information.
Please see our Biosecurity Checklist and Biosecurity Guidance to protect your flock.
The requirement to house birds was lifted on 18 April 2023. Further information can be found here.