Confirmation of bird flu in backyard poultry flock

Authorities have identified an outbreak of bird flu in a small, privately kept poultry group. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed that the H5N1 virus was detected among birds near Chedburgh in Suffolk on Wednesday.

In response, officials have established a 3 km (1.9-mile) protection zone and a 10 km (6.2-mile) surveillance zone surrounding the affected property. All birds on the premises will be humanely culled to prevent further spread of the virus.

Earlier cases this year have also been recorded in Suffolk at Lawshall, Woodbridge, Honington, Elveden, Lakenheath, and Claydon. So far in 2025, England has reported a total of 50 confirmed outbreaks of the virus.

An avian influenza prevention zone has been in effect since 6 November, impacting both poultry product vendors and owners of more than 50 birds. While the virus primarily affects birds and occasionally other animals, public health officials state that the risk to humans is very low. People are advised not to handle or move sick or dead birds.

This is the sixth confirmed case of bird flu in the county within the past month.

Author: Logan Reeves