H5N1 confirmed at poultry farm near Biggar in Scottish Borders

The case was confirmed on 2 November. A 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone have been set up around the farm.

Scottish authorities confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 at a poultry farm near Biggar on 2 November. The case is listed as AIV 2026/22.

The restrictions cover a 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone. It is Scotland’s second current outbreak: H5N5 was confirmed at Ness, on the Isle of Lewis, on 2 October.

Within the zones, movements of poultry and other captive birds, eggs, meat and carcases are subject to general licence conditions. The rules also cover the spreading of poultry litter, manure and slurry. Keepers must check their birds for signs of infection and report any suspected cases to a vet or the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Anyone unsure whether their premises are covered can check the APHA disease control map. If any part of a premises falls inside a zone, restrictions apply to the whole site