Bird Flu Confirmed at Commercial Poultry Premises Near Sudbrooke, Lincolnshire

H5N1 Outbreak Declared in Sudbrooke

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed at a large commercial poultry premises located near Sudbrooke, West Lindsey, Lincolnshire. The confirmation was made on December 6, 2025, leading to immediate disease control measures by animal health authorities.

As a direct response to the outbreak, a 3-kilometre protection zone and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone have been declared around the infected site. All poultry at the affected premises will be humanely culled to prevent further spread of the virus.

Strict Disease Control Measures Implemented

The establishment of the protection and surveillance zones mandates specific restrictions on the movement of poultry, carcasses, eggs, and other related products within these areas. These measures are crucial for containing the highly contagious H5N1 strain of avian influenza.

This incident occurs within the broader context of an ongoing Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across Great Britain. Housing measures for birds in England have been in effect since November 6, 2025, and in Wales since November 13, 2025. These regulations require all bird keepers to maintain strict biosecurity and, for many, to keep their birds indoors to protect them from wild bird contact.

Regional Impact and Public Health Reassurance

The Sudbrooke case is one of several recent avian influenza detections in Lincolnshire. Other confirmed outbreaks in the region include cases near Gainsborough on December 5, 2025, and November 28, 2025, as well as near Swineshead on October 31, 2025.

Despite the continued presence of the virus in poultry populations, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reiterated that the risk to the general public's health from avian influenza is considered 'very low'. The Food Standards Agency also assures consumers that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, remain safe for consumption.

Authorities continue to urge all bird keepers, regardless of flock size, to remain vigilant for signs of the disease and to report any suspicions immediately. Adherence to biosecurity measures is paramount in mitigating the spread of avian influenza.