First avian influenza case of the season confirmed in England

20 October 2026

| 3 minute read

Biosecurity signage on a poultry farm gate

The NFU is urging poultry keepers to maintain stringent biosecurity practices after HPAI H5N1 was confirmed in a commercial flock in Northumberland, the first English case of the 2026/27 outbreak season.

A case of HPAI (highly pathogenic avian influenza) H5N1 has been confirmed in a commercial flock near Belford in North Northumberland.

This is the first confirmed case of AI in England of the 2026/2027 outbreak season. The case follows the confirmation of HPAI H5N5 in Scotland earlier this month.

NFU Poultry Board Chair Will Raw said the news was “devastating for the business affected” and sent his thought to the farmer and everyone involved.

“As we see an increase in migratory birds arriving in the UK, we are urging all poultry keepers, regardless of the size of their flock, to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity and remain vigilant for any signs of disease.”

NFU Poultry Board Chair Will Raw

Poultry keepers urged to maintain strict biosecurity

“This case, the first in England in the current season, serves as a reminder that the risk from avian influenza remains ever-present,” Will said.

“As we see an increase in migratory birds arriving in the UK, we are urging all poultry keepers, regardless of the size of their flock, to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity and remain vigilant for any signs of disease.”

“The NFU will continue to work closely with government and the wider supply chain to monitor the situation and support British poultry producers through the challenges posed by this disease.

“This involves both immediate support for those affected as well as longer term strategic change such as the government’s vaccination policy.”

8 tips to keep your birds safe

  1. Regularly clean and disinfect hard areas your birds can access.
  2. Practice good rodent control.
  3. Feed and water your birds in an area which wild birds cannot access.
  4. Keep an eye out for mites and worms and treat as necessary.
  5. Avoid sharing water courses with wild birds.
  6. Keep yourself clean by wearing clean boots and clothes and by washing your hands.
  7. Keep the poultry house and equipment clean.
  8. If you are worried about the health or welfare of your birds, call your vet.

AI disease management

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This page was first published on 20 October 2026.

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