We are aware of a confirmed case of Avian Influenza (bird flu) in a wild bird at a park in Derby.
We are liaising closely with Defra and would encourage all park users to follow the below advice. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said that bird flu is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low.
Advice to park users:
- Keep to the footpaths
- Keep dogs on leads
- Do not feed wild waterfowl
- Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
- Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings
- If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds
Please report dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese, or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey to Defra’s GB helpline: 03459 335577
Councillor Jerry Pearce, Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Spaces and Leisure commented:
“Whilst the risk to the public is very low, I’d strongly encourage residents who visit our parks to refrain from feeding wild ducks, geese and other birds as a way to help us prevent the further spread of disease.
“Anyone who owns chickens or ducks in the city should register their flocks with Defra as soon as possible to be kept up to date on the latest advice and information about the outbreak.
Our teams will continue to work closely with Defra to manage the situation.”
Further information is available on the Government website.