UK H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak – Southwest England
- A highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) outbreak has been confirmed in a poultry flock near Exminster, Devon, in southwestern England, the UK government announced today, August 31, 2025....
- H5N1 is a strain of the influenza A virus that primarily affects birds.
- To limit the potential spread of the virus, the UK government has established both protection and surveillance zones around the affected premises.
H5N1 avian Influenza Confirmed in Devon, England – August 31, 2025
A highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) outbreak has been confirmed in a poultry flock near Exminster, Devon, in southwestern England, the UK government announced today, August 31, 2025. The confirmation triggers immediate action to contain the spread of the virus and protect the wider poultry population.
Containment Measures Implemented
To limit the potential spread of the virus, the UK government has established both protection and surveillance zones around the affected premises. A 3-kilometer (approximately 2-mile) protection zone restricts the movement of poultry, eggs, and other bird-related products. A wider 10-kilometer (approximately 6.2-mile) surveillance zone is also in effect, requiring heightened monitoring of poultry flocks for signs of infection. Details on these zones and restrictions can be found on the UK government’s avian influenza webpage.
As a standard protocol in response to confirmed H5N1 outbreaks, all poultry on the affected premises will be humanely culled to prevent further viral shedding and transmission. This measure, while tough, is considered crucial in controlling the outbreak.
Ongoing Monitoring and Public Health
The UK’s Department for Surroundings, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) is leading the response, working closely wiht local authorities and veterinary services. Defra continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as they become available. Data on avian influenza,including biosecurity guidance for bird keepers,is available from the UK government website.
While the risk to public health is considered very low, the public is advised to report any findings of dead wild birds to the Defra’s dedicated reporting line. This helps authorities track the spread of the virus in the wild bird population.