PEOPLE who keep birds in East Sussex are being alerted to a mandatory housing order which comes into effect on Thursday, November 6.

The UK Chief Veterinary Officer has ordered a mandatory housing order for poultry and kept birds to cover the whole of England following the escalating number of confirmations of avian influenza in kept and wild birds.

The new measures mean bird keepers must house all poultry and captive birds if they keep more than 50 (except in specific circumstances e.g. some zoo birds) or if they sell or give eggs away.

Outbreaks of avian influenza have been confirmed recently in East Sussex.

Residents and businesses who house birds are asked to remain vigilant for any signs of disease and to report any suspected cases immediately by calling 03000 200 301.

All keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock are also required to undertake enhanced biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease.

Further information on the latest situation and guidance to help bird keepers comply with the new rules is available via www.gov.uk/birdflu.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said that avian influenza is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low.

If you find small numbers of dead wild birds you can dispose of them in household or municipal bins, following the government’s safety advice which includes washing your hands after coming into contact with dead birds.

There is no need to report dead birds unless you find a large number of them in one place.

Detailed information on safely disposing of dead wild birds can be found online at www.gov.uk/guidance/removing-and-disposing-of-dead-wild-birds or by calling 03459 33 55 77.