avian Influenza Outbreak Confirmed at Poultry Farm Near York
A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed at a large commercial poultry farm located near York, England.the outbreak, detected on December 24, 2025, prompted swift action from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to contain the spread of the virus.
DEFRA has mandated the culling of all birds on the affected property. To further mitigate risk, a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established around the farm. within the 3km protection zone, all poultry and captive birds are required to be housed, preventing contact with wild birds which can carry the virus. Additionally, stringent recording requirements have been implemented for all poultry and eggs moving in or out of premises within the 10km surveillance zone.
This outbreak occurs amidst heightened concerns regarding avian influenza across the United kingdom. The UK Health Security agency (UKHSA) assesses the risk to public health as very low, but continues to monitor the situation closely. poultry farmers and bird keepers are urged to practise stringent biosecurity measures, including regular cleaning and disinfection, and to report any signs of illness in their flocks immediately to DEFRA. Further facts and guidance on avian influenza can be found on the DEFRA website.
Primary topic: Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Outbreak
Primary Keyword: bird Flu
Secondary Keywords: Avian Influenza, H5N1, DEFRA, Poultry, UK, York, Biosecurity, Culling, Protection Zone, Surveillance Zone.
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