Cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in wild bird populations in North Warwickshire, it has been announced. The presence of A(H5N1) in wild bird populations at Kingsbury Water Park and surrounding area was announced on Wednesday, December 3, by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
In light of the concerning news, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged Brits visiting the popular green area not to touch any sick or dead wild birds. A statement released by Warwickshire County Council shares four main points visitors to the park should follow.
- Stick to footpaths and keep dogs on leads.
- Please do not touch or pick up any dead or sick birds.
- Don’t handle feathers or any surfaces that may be contaminated by droppings.
- After visiting the park, thoroughly wash your hands in soap and water. Hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol can be used as an alternative but is less effective than using soap and water.
The risk posed to human health by the A(H5N1) strain is considered low. Yet, the council warns that infection control measures may be necessary if people touch sick live birds or carcasses infected with the highly pathogenic strain.
Sarah Smith, Consultant in Health Protection leading on avian influenza for UKHSA West Midlands, said: “The risk to the public from this strain of avian flu is very low, however it is important that people do not touch any sick or dead birds. Anyone who has been in contact with sick or dead birds or their droppings, in an area where the infection has been confirmed, should make sure any footwear is properly cleaned and thoroughly wash their hands in soap and water.”
She added: “They should then notify the UK Health Security Agency’s West Midlands Health Protection Team on 0344 225 3560 so that public health experts can determine if antiviral medication and active surveillance of their condition is necessary. If someone handled infected birds while wearing adequate PPE, they may still undergo surveillance.”
The local council said it is working with Government agencies to ensure the health and safety of residents.
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