Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) Confirmed in Worcestershire Poultry Flock

Bird Flu Outbreak Confirmed in Alvechurch, Worcestershire

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) of the H5N1 strain has been confirmed in a large commercial poultry flock located near Alvechurch, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. The confirmation was made on December 27, 2025, by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), triggering immediate disease control measures.

Protection and Surveillance Zones Established

Following the confirmation, Defra has promptly declared a 3-kilometre protection zone and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone around the infected premises. These zones impose strict restrictions on the movement of poultry, poultry products, and other captive birds to contain the spread of the virus. As a critical measure to control the outbreak, all poultry within the affected commercial flock will be humanely culled.

National Context and Public Health Advisory

This incident in Worcestershire is part of a wider pattern of HPAI H5N1 detections across the United Kingdom. Recent confirmations include cases in Nottinghamshire, Norfolk, Lincolnshire, and North Yorkshire. Earlier in 2025, H5N1 was also confirmed in a commercial poultry flock near Hallow, Malvern Hills, Worcestershire, in November. Mandatory housing measures for poultry and captive birds are currently in force across many counties in England to mitigate the risk of transmission.

Authorities, including the UK Health Security Agency, maintain that the risk to public health from avian influenza is very low. The Food Standards Agency also advises that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, remain safe for consumption. Bird keepers are urged to remain vigilant for signs of disease and to report any suspicions immediately to their veterinarian or the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Importance of Biosecurity

Defra emphasizes the critical importance of stringent biosecurity measures for all bird keepers, regardless of the size of their flock. These measures are essential to prevent the introduction and spread of avian influenza. Recommendations include:

• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness for premises, equipment, and vehicles.
• Restricting access to poultry houses and runs.
• Placing feed and water in enclosed areas to deter wild birds.
• Regularly checking the health of birds and reporting any concerns.