What's Happening?
A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed at a large commercial poultry farm near York. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) reported the outbreak on December 24, 2025, in the Elvington area. As
a result, all birds on the affected farm will be culled to prevent further spread. Additionally, a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established around the farm. This outbreak follows a similar incident in Bedale in October, where birds were also culled. Since October 1, 2025, there have been 63 confirmed cases of HPAI across England.
Why It's Important?
The outbreak of bird flu at a commercial poultry farm poses significant risks to the poultry industry, potentially affecting supply chains and leading to economic losses. The culling of birds is a necessary measure to prevent the spread of the virus, but it also results in financial losses for farmers. The establishment of protection and surveillance zones aims to contain the virus, but it may disrupt local poultry operations and trade. The recurrence of such outbreaks highlights the need for stringent biosecurity measures and monitoring to protect both the poultry industry and public health.
