As the UK government attempts to deal with the largest ever bird flu outbreak in England, a Kingston University expert fears the current epidemic could lead to shortfall of Christmas food this winter.

With hundreds of cases of avian flu being identified within the last year and more than 5.5 million birds dead or culled since October 2021, figures are set to rise significantly within the next few months.

The UK government yesterday announced (November 7th) all poultry and captive birds must be kept indoors to combat the spread.

Kingston University Professor of Medical Microbiology, Mark Fielder said: "This specific strain of avian flu emerged last year and unusually it hasn't really gone away. As it doesn't seem to be disappearing, it's proving particularly problematic.

" It is an effective pathogen (disease causing agent), as we've seen a lot of sea birds and migratory birds dying and now it's expanded into the pheasant population.

"It's also capable of killing poultry such as chickens and turkeys, which could potentially cause issues around food availability – particularly in the run up to Christmas."

Fears are already rising amongst shoppers as signs have appeared in Aldi and Sainsbury's stores across the country highlighting egg supplier issues.

One sign in a Sainsbury's stated: "Can't find the eggs you want? We're dealing with supplier issues right now. We're sorry for any hassle this causes."

Commenting on the impact to the UK food supply chain, Professor Fielder continued: "The impact on the British national flock is likely to hit the incomes of farmers, who particularly rely on the demand for these meats up to and over the festive period.

"The situation is also affecting the game bird industry and unfortunately, because the outbreak is so widespread, farmers currently have challenges claiming compensation so it's a difficult time for the farming community."

As it currently stands, the disease cannot be passed onto humans but Professor Fielder has urged the public to take precautions where possible.

He added: "If you find a dead bird or one in distress, don't touch it and instead report to Defra with a time, location and, if you know it, the species. If you feed birds in your garden make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after you've tended to the feeder or bird table.

"Finally, if you do keep birds as pets, including chickens, finches or even a domestic budgerigar, make sure you keep them at home for the foreseeable future – it's all about keeping us apart from the virus as well as we possibly can."