Bird flu: near Belford, North Northumberland, Northumberland (AIV2026/21)

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in commercial poultry near Belford, North Northumberland, Northumberland on 19 October 2026.

• From: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency
• Published: 19 October 2026

• Disease Type: Bird flu (avian influenza)
• Disease control zone restrictions: In force
• Disease control zone type: Protection zone and Surveillance zone
• Virus strain: H5N1
• Case opened date: 19 October 2026

Case information

19 October 2026

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in commercial poultry near Belford, North Northumberland, Northumberland.

A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone has been declared around the premises. All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled. 

Download the declaration of an avian influenza protection zone and surveillance zone

Further information

Check:

• the updated bird flu disease control zone map
• if you need a licence to move poultry, poultry by-products, eggs, material or mammals

Case number: AIV 2026/21