The UK has recorded its first outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) of the 2026-27 season, in backyard poultry at Ness on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, Farmers Weekly reports. Authorities confirmed the H5N5 strain and set up a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone around the infected premises.
The case is the first since the new season began on 1 October, and it means Great Britain has lost its HPAI disease-free status, with consequences for trade.
"This case is a timely reminder that avian influenza remains a very real threat and that all poultry keepers, regardless of the size of their flock, must remain vigilant," said Matthew Steel, poultry chairman of NFU Scotland, who called the confirmation "deeply concerning". The union said it would work with the Scottish government and agencies to keep keepers informed.
It follows two costly seasons. In 2024-25, 82 HPAI outbreaks were confirmed and at least 2.4 million birds had been culled by late September. Cases rose to 100 in 2025-26: 79 in England, nine in Scotland, seven in Wales and five in Northern Ireland. The largest recent season remains 2022-23, with 207 infected premises.
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease, and suspected cases in poultry or captive birds must be reported at once: in England to the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301, in Wales on 0300 303 8268, and in Scotland to the local Field Services Office.
For keepers everywhere, including small backyard flocks like the one at Ness, the case is an early-season signal to tighten biosecurity as migratory birds arrive.
Photo: Bill Boaden / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Source: Farmers Weekly
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