Avian flu confirmed in geese along the River Avon in Stratford-on-Avon
Public health agencies issue guidelines to residents and visitors
Avian influenza A(H5N1) has been identified in wild geese near the River Avon in Stratford-on-Avon, according to the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people not to touch sick or dead wild birds along the River Avon or nearby areas. Warwickshire County Council, Stratford-on-Avon District Council, and UKHSA are working with APHA to manage the situation and protect public health, while aiming to minimise risks to other birds.
The A(H5N1) strain is highly infectious among birds, though experts say the risk to human health is very low. To ensure precautionary measures are followed, visitors to Stratford-on-Avon and surrounding areas are advised to stay on footpaths, keep dogs on leads, and avoid handling feathers, bird carcasses, or surfaces contaminated by droppings.
Advice for residents and visitors
If you encounter a sick or dead bird, contact the Defra helpline at 03459 33 55 77 or report it via the ‘Report dead wild birds’ page on the GOV.UK website.
People in contact with bird droppings or sick birds in infected areas are urged to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or clean footwear properly. Those exposed to droppings or birds without protective equipment should notify the UKHSA West Midlands Health Protection Team on 0344 225 3560 for guidance on whether they require antiviral medication or surveillance.
Mamoona Tahir, Consultant in Health Protection for UKHSA West Midlands, highlighted the importance of avoiding direct contact: “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. As a precaution, anyone who may have come into contact with the droppings or birds in an area where the infection has been confirmed will be monitored and offered a course of antiviral medication if needed.”
Councils working to protect public health
Dr Shade Agboola, Director of Public Health for Warwickshire County Council, advised: “The incidence of avian flu in the wild bird population is something that we are taking very seriously. The UKHSA has made it clear that the risk of the disease transferring from birds to humans is considered to be very low. To ensure this situation remains, members of the public should not touch or go near sick or dying birds and any dead birds found should be reported to DEFRA.”
Councillor Anne-Marie Sonko, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health at Warwickshire County Council, said: "We are working closely with Stratford-on-Avon District Council and partner agencies to ensure the health and safety of residents in Stratford. We are asking people not to feed wild birds at this time, not to touch or move dead birds, and to keep their dogs away from them.”
Officials advise that avian flu may also be circulating in other parts of Warwickshire. People outside of Stratford who find sick or dead birds are reminded to avoid contact and report sightings to the Defra helpline.