Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
Current Situation
Following the lifting of the Protection Zone on 29th June 2008 ,the Surveillance Zone and remaining disease control area restrictions put in place following the outbreak of H7N7 avian influenza in Oxfordshire were lifted on 8th July 2008. For more information on Avian Influenza, visit the Defra website
Advice to Poultry Keepers in Warwickshire
> Biosecurity
Keepers of birds are urged to be vigilant and to exercise good biosecurity. Any owners that suspect disease should act quickly and consult their vet. Avian influenza is a notifiable disease and must be reported to Animal Health. Warwickshire keepers must report suspect cases to the Animal Health Divisional Office Leicester on 0116 278 7451.
> GB Poultry Register
Keepers of 50 or more birds are reminded that they are required to register their premise with the GB Poultry Register. Keepers with less than 50 birds are encourage to register of a voluntary basis. To register phone 0800 634 1112 or visit the Defra website
Information for the Public
> Public Health
There is no reason for public health concern. Avian influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
> Access to the Countryside
During an avian influenza outbreak there is little need to restrict access to land by closing footpaths or other land to which there is a right of access. If access to land does need to be restricted, clear and up-to-date information would be provided as to where those areas are. There should therefore, be no need for people to stop visiting the countryside or parks and gardens.
> Reporting dead birds
If you find single dead wild gulls, waders, ducks, geese or swans and you are within a survey area (Warwickshire is in the survey area), or are unsure whether you are in a surveillance area please contact the Defra helpline 08459 33 55 77 and choose the Avian Influenza option which will be open from 6am to 10pm. You will be asked for details of your finding and its location.
If you find any other single dead birds, including garden birds then you do not need to call the Defra helpline.
If you find die offs involving 10 or more dead birds of the same species or from different species in the same place you should contact the Defra Helpline 08459 33 55 77 and choose the Avian Influenza option which will be open from 6am to 10pm.
> Handling a dead bird
Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people. Although the risk of Avian Influenza may be low, birds can carry other respiratory infections. Birds can also carry infections which can cause gastrointestinal infections such as Salmonella and Campylobacter.
If dead birds are handled, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible. Avoid touching your face and certainly do not eat until you have washed your hands. Clean any soiling on clothing with soap and water.