Avian influenza – Lifting of Protection Zone around Infected Premises near Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was previously confirmed at two premises near Gretna by Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), Sheila Voas, on 03 December 2021 and 15 December 2021.  A 3 km Protection Zone and 10 km Surveillance Zone were applied around the first infected premises (IP) on 04 December 2021.  The second IP was deemed a “special category premises” due to its non-commercial nature.  The premises fell within the existing 3 km PZ and 10 km SZ of the previous Gretna IP.  As a result of this, and based on a veterinary risk assessment, no new disease control zones were applied.

The confirmation of the second Gretna IP within existing disease control zones extended the minimum time period required for these zones to be in place.

Following the completion of preliminary cleansing and disinfection, and mandatory surveillance requirements, Scottish Ministers have declared the lifting of the 3 km Protection Zone detailed above.  The area this comprised has now merged with the 10 km Surveillance Zone, which is still in force.

 The GB-wide Avian Influenza Protection Zone (AIPZ), remains in place, and producers and bird keepers are reminded that they are legally required to comply with the Order to house birds that came in to effect, as part of the AIPZ, on 24 November 2021, and to follow biosecurity procedures, regardless of the number of birds being kept.  Keepers who are concerned about the health or welfare of their flock should seek veterinary advice immediately.

Further advice for keepers can be found here: avian influenza.