Avian influenza protection zone lifted

Defra has lifted the Protection Zone put in place as part of control measures for the H7N7 avian influenza outbreak in Oxfordshire.

Active surveillance in the area has shown no evidence of disease spread and infection appears to be confined to the one infected premises.

Restrictions associated with the Protection Zone have fallen, including the requirement to house birds, and Surveillance Zone controls have instead applied in the area. Restrictions on bird gatherings and movements of poultry and poultry products are still in place, and keepers should maintain good biosecurity practices and report any suspicion of disease immediately.