Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
11 November 2024
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding the public to practice good hygiene and to avoid contact with sick or dead birds, following confirmation of avian influenza (bird flu) in poultry and captive birds in England.
The H5N1 strain of avian influenza has been confirmed in:
- a commercial poultry flock in Norfolk
- captive birds at premises in Cheshire
Control measures, including the culling of all birds on the affected premises, have been put in place to limit the spread of the disease.
Public Health England (PHE) is working closely with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to monitor the situation and provide public health advice.
The risk to human health from avian influenza is very low. However, as a precaution, people are being advised to:
- not touch or pick up sick or dead birds
- keep cats and other pets away from sick or dead birds
- wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with birds
- avoid eating raw or undercooked poultry or eggs
You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth if you have been in contact with birds.
Anyone who suspects they may have come into contact with avian influenza should seek medical advice. Symptoms of avian influenza in humans can include:
- fever
- chills
- muscle aches
- cough
- sore throat
- runny nose
- conjunctivitis
If you have any of these symptoms and have been in contact with birds, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
For more information on avian influenza, please visit the UKHSA website: www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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