Members of the public are being urged to stay vigilant after a case of avian influenza (bird flu) was confirmed in Seend.
The highly pathogenic H5N1 strain was detected in a dead wild herring gull, submitted to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) as part of its ongoing dead wild bird surveillance scheme.
Due to the bird being found near water and popular dog-walking routes, Wiltshire Council’s dog wardens will be putting up posters along the canal path to warn walkers and dog owners.
Bird flu can affect mammals, including dogs, so pet owners are advised to take precautions. A council spokesperson said, “If your pet becomes unwell, tell your vet if it has been in contact with wild birds.”
The APHA is advising the public not to pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds, and to avoid contact with wild bird feathers or any surfaces contaminated with bird droppings.
People who keep poultry or other birds are urged to wash their hands and disinfect their footwear before handling their birds, to reduce the risk of transmission.
Anyone who finds dead wild birds is asked to report them online via the GOV.UK website.
For more information and to report findings, visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/report-dead-wild-birds
