#18,831
Following last weeks abrupt surge in HPAI H5 outbreaks in UK poultry (see here and here), Defra has reported two more outbreaks over the past 48 hours; 1 in Suffolk, and a second outbreak in Norfolk.
This makes 9 outbreaks in the UK & the Republic of Ireland over the past 2 weeks (see map above).
While laboratory confirmation is pending on the Norfolk outbreak, it is being treated as HPAI based clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and increasing mortality.
This update posted by Defra earlier today:
Latest situation
8 August 2025
Following the report of suspicion of highly pathogenic avian influenza in commercial poultry at a premises near Woodbridge, East Suffolk, Suffolk (AIV SOS 2025/03), a decision has been taken to pre-emptively cull the birds based on the clinical signs, postmortem findings and increasing mortality. A 3km temporary control zone A and 10km temporary control zone B have been put in place. All affected poultry on the premises will be humanely culled.
6 August 2025
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in commercial poultry at a fifth premises near Attleborough, Breckland, Norfolk on 6 August 2025.
A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone has been declared around the premises. All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled.
Based on past experience, the expectation was that the UK would enjoy lull in bird flu activity over the summer. Last year no cases were reported between March and October - and until a couple of weeks ago - no cases had been reported in nearly 5 weeks.
But past performance is never a guarantee of future results.
Today the UK also released an updated series of posters for land managers and local authorities to warn the public when there's a risk of bird flu in the area.
When to use these posters: instructions for land managers
Updated 8 August 2025
When to use poster 1
Use this poster if bird flu has recently been confirmed in the area (in approximately the last 30 days).
It will help people understand what they need to do to:
- keep safe
- stop bird flu spreading
- report dead wild birds
When to use poster 2
Use this poster if:It will help people understand what they need to do to:
- bird flu has recently been confirmed in the area (in approximately the last 30 days)
- a decision has been taken locally to advise against feeding wild waterfowl (swans, ducks and geese) in the area
It also provides advice about feeding wild birds in the area.
- keep safe
- stop bird flu spreading
- report dead wild birds
When to use poster 3
Use this poster when bird flu has not been confirmed in the local area, but there’s a risk of bird flu.
It gives general safety advice and explains how to report dead wild birds.
Feeding wild birds in your area
Local authorities, landowners and land managers are responsible for deciding if it’s safe for people to feed wild birds.
Consider if feeding wild birds could risk:spreading bird flu
people’s health or safety
Read our advice about feeding wild birds.
Removing and disposing of dead wild birds
If you find any dead wild birds report online or call the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) may collect some dead wild birds for testing.
Dead wild birds not required for testing by APHA can be disposed of safely by the:local authority on public land
landowner or land manager on private land or managed estates
Find out how to remove and dispose of dead wild birds.
