Bird flu fears prompt orders for farmers to keep poultry inside in England and Scotland

Key Insights

• Avian influenza prevention zones have been declared across England and Scotland for the second consecutive year.
• Owners possessing 50 or more poultry or captive birds are required to house them indoors.
• Farmers must implement enhanced biosecurity and immediately report suspected disease or changes in egg production.
• The restriction follows an increase in confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild and kept birds.
• Globally, the disease has caused significant wildlife die-offs and has been linked to 11 human deaths in 2025.
• The government assures the public that the risk to human health remains low and that seasonal poultry supply will not be impacted.