Hope for game sector as bird flu vaccination under consideration

Gamebirds may be included in future bird flu vaccination programmes, offering a potential lifeline for an industry hit hard by the disease.

A major taskforce report, published on 24 July, explored how vaccination could be integrated into wider poultry protection plans. It concluded that day-old chick vaccination is technically feasible, though not without significant challenges.

Dominic Boulton of the Game Farmers’ Association, who sits on the taskforce, said the findings bring the sector “much closer” to using vaccination for protection – but urged realistic expectations.

Key hurdles include the stress of handling birds for bird flu vaccination, the labour burden for hatcheries without automation, and the fact that booster shots aren’t possible once birds are released. “Duration of immunity is crucial,” the report noted.

The update comes as four new bird flu cases were confirmed in the week after publication, bringing the UK total to 75 since November.

Despite the obstacles, Mr Boulton said “anything that can offer some hope to game farmers and keepers is very welcome”. A recommendation is expected by summer 2026.

Did you like this article? Read more news from Shooting UK, or subscribe to Shooting Times & Country magazine.