December 16, 2021 8.26 am This story is over 26 months old

More cases of bird flu detected in Lincolnshire

Cases continue to rise in England

Two more cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Lincolnshire, meaning all birds on the infected premises will need to be humanely culled.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at both a fourth and fifth premises near Alford in Lincolnshire on December 14.

Avian influenza (bird flu) mainly affects birds. It can also affect humans and other mammals.

DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) said that a 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in place around the premises.

The government has, to date, confirmed 46 cases of bird flu in England, including three others in Alford which were announced on December 11 and 12.

The most recent national case was confirmed in birds at a premises near Wem in North Shropshire on the December 15 – see the latest here.

When avian influenza is confirmed or suspected in poultry or other captive birds, disease control zones are put in place around the infected premises to prevent the spread of the disease.

Within these zones, a range of restrictions on the movement of poultry and material associated with their keeping can apply – check if you are in a zone using this interactive map online here.


Avian influenza (bird flu) is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.

If you find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77). Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. For further information see our advice to the public.