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Bird flu outbreaks confirmed in Devon

Two Devon poultry farms have confirmed H5N1 outbreaks. A 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone are in place around each site, and poultry will be culled to prevent spread.

August 9, 2025 at 10:11 AM
blur More bird flu outbreaks confirmed in Devon

Two Devon poultry sites report H5N1 outbreaks, prompting containment zones and culling to prevent spread.

More bird flu outbreaks confirmed in Devon

Two commercial poultry premises in Devon have confirmed outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 on August 8, 2025. The sites are near Seaton in East Devon and Lifton in West Devon. In both cases, DEFRA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency have established a 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone around the premises, with culling of all poultry on those sites expected to take place.

Farmers within the affected zones face strict controls, including housing poultry, restrictions on moving eggs or birds, and guidance on disposing of carcasses. The actions are part of a broader effort to curb the spread of the virus and protect other flocks in the region.

Key Takeaways

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Two Devon poultry sites confirmed H5N1 on August 8 2025
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Each site triggers a 3 km protection zone and 10 km surveillance zone
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Poultry on affected premises will be culled
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Farmers in zones must house birds and follow strict movement rules
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Disposal of carcasses and licensing for moving eggs or birds are tightly regulated
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Authorities will intensify monitoring in the region
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Local poultry supply chains may face short-term disruption
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Public messaging will shape expectations around future outbreaks

"Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in commercial poultry at a premises near Seaton, East Devon, Devon on 8 August 2025."

DEFRA confirmation of Seaton outbreak

"A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone has been declared around the premises."

Containment measures announced by DEFRA

"All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled."

Containment action to prevent spread

The double outbreak shows that avian influenza remains a regional risk, not a single hotspot. Swiftly declaring protection and surveillance zones signals continuity in public health precaution and a readiness to act quickly when the virus is detected. The balance between rapid containment and supporting farmers through the measures will be a test for authorities and for farmers who must adapt biosecurity practices under pressure.

Public confidence will hinge on clear guidance and visible results. Recurrent outbreaks can strain local livelihoods and spark discussions about the costs of disease control and the resilience of the farming sector as a whole.

Highlights

  • Containment begins with fast action and clear rules.
  • Biosecurity is a daily duty for every farm.
  • Two outbreaks test the region's readiness and resolve.
  • Clear guidance turns risk into organized response.

Public reaction and policy risk in regional bird flu outbreaks

The outbreaks raise concerns over farming costs, potential job impacts, and how quickly authorities can implement and enforce zoning and culling rules. The situation could influence local sentiment toward government policy and vaccine or compensation discussions, especially if further outbreaks occur.

Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and adjust zones as needed.

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