Calls Grow for Poultry Vaccine as Bird Flu Persists
Poultry Farmer Warns Bird Flu Could Decimate UK Industry Without Vaccine
A long-established poultry farmer has warned that avian influenza could severely damage the UK poultry industry. This could happen unless vaccination is introduced alongside existing biosecurity measures.
Jeff Cracknell, who farms on the Somerset Levels, said measures such as netting flocks within bird flu surveillance zones are not sufficient. They cannot control a disease that is now endemic in wild bird populations. His farm, which keeps around 250 ducks and 1,000 chickens, lies within a 10-mile surveillance zone following a nearby outbreak. This outbreak resulted in a full cull.
Cracknell argued that eradication is unrealistic given the role of migratory birds. He warned that continued outbreaks are already disrupting breeder flocks and the supply of day-old chicks. This creates knock-on effects across the sector. He said rising disease pressure is adding to challenges already caused by weather and production costs.
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed that a vaccine trial using turkeys could begin as early as this spring. It will be at its Weybridge site. The 24-week trial is intended to assess whether vaccines can be safely and effectively deployed in UK farming conditions. This will be alongside existing biosecurity controls.
The debate reflects growing industry concern that current control strategies may be insufficient. This is because avian influenza becomes a persistent, long-term threat to poultry production.
Source: BBC News | 12 December 2025
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