BBC Disinfecting feet, frequent hand washing and changing footwear often are just some of the measures farmers take to try and halt the spread of bird flu.
Cases of the virus have been found in Burnopfield and Lazonby, forcing the Animal and Plant Health Agency to set up surveillance zones in Tyne and Wear, Cumbria and County Durham.
Measures are particularly important for farmers and bird keepers as outbreaks can result in entire flocks being destroyed, either by the disease or as a protection measure.
But those living near where cases have been detected can also take steps to help limit the spread of the virus.