Bird keepers across Staffordshire are being encouraged to maintain good bio-security as further cases of avian influenza are confirmed in the UK.

The latest Avian Influenza Protection Zone (AIPZ) was introduced on 3rd November 2021 to help prevent disease spreading amongst poultry and captive birds.

Officers from Staffordshire County Councils Trading Standards Animal Health team are now advising all bird keepers in the county to remain vigilant for signs of ill health in their birds.

The guidance applies to anyone keeping birds, whether it's a few hens in a back garden, rearing game birds or a large commercial farm.

Whilst at present there is no legal requirement to house birds, the introduction of the AIPZ means that all bird keepers must follow strict bio-security rules.

This includes ensuring wild birds cannot have access to any bedding, feed or water intended for use for kept poultry or birds.

In addition to this, steps must be taken to reduce the movements of people into or out of the areas where birds are kept.

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council said: "We have seen first-hand earlier this year the impact of an outbreak of avian influenza in the county.

"As we enter the winter months and the migration of birds, good biosecurity is an essential defence against disease and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza.

"Whether an outbreak occurs in pet birds, a backyard flock or a commercial flock, the same disease control measures apply and the same impacts on bird keepers and trade in poultry occurs.

"It's really important and is in all our interests that people follow the rules set out."