House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Avian Influenza Outbreak Response
09 December 2024 · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Proposed by Daniel Zeichner Lab Cambridge
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The UK government has activated its outbreak control structures in response to the threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 and H5N5 strains.
- Defra supports biosecurity measures and encourages the public to report dead wild birds through an online service or helpline.
- Over five million doses of human H5 influenza vaccine have been procured as a precautionary measure.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the current threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 and H5N5 strains affecting both wild and kept birds in Great Britain.
Action requested
Defra has activated its outbreak control structures, supports biosecurity measures, encourages public reporting of dead wild birds through an online service or helpline, and continues to invest in research for preventive vaccination. The government also procured over five million doses of human H5 influenza vaccine as a precautionary measure against potential pandemic risks.
Key facts
- Avian influenza H5N1 and H5N5 strains are circulating in wild birds.
- Defra and APHA have established outbreak structures to control and eradicate the disease.
- The public is encouraged to report dead wild birds via an online service or helpline (03459 335577).
- Great Britain is no longer free from HPAI following a case in poultry in England.
- Defra has purchased over five million doses of human H5 influenza vaccine as part of pandemic preparedness plans.