Bird flu confirmed in UK area as officials urge locals ‘don’t do this’ | UK | News
Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in wild bird populations in North Warwickshire. The presence of A(H5N1) in wild bird populations in and around Kingsbury Water Park was announced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on Wednesday 3 December.
In light of the news, the UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) has urged Brits visiting the popular green space not to handle sick or dead wild birds. A statement published by Warwickshire County Council shares four main points that visitors to the park should follow.
- Stick to trails and keep dogs on a leash.
- Please do not touch or pick up dead or sick birds.
- Do not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with feathers or feces.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after visiting the park. Alternatively, hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can be used, but is less effective than using soap and water.
The risk posed by the A(H5N1) strain to human health is considered to be low. However, the council warns that infection control measures may be required if people touch sick live birds or carcasses infected with the highly pathogenic strain.
Sarah Smith, UKHSA West Midlands lead Health Protection Adviser on bird flu, said: “The risk to the public of contracting this strain of bird flu is very low, but it is important that people do not handle sick or dead birds. Anyone who comes into contact with sick or dead birds, or their droppings, in an area where infection has been confirmed should ensure all footwear is suitably cleaned and wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water.”
He added: “They should then notify the UK Health Safety Agency’s West Midlands Health Protection Team on 0344 225 3560 so that public health professionals can determine whether antiviral medication and active surveillance of their condition is required. If someone touches infected birds while wearing adequate PPE, they may still be kept under surveillance.”
The local council said it was working with Government agencies to ensure the health and safety of residents.
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