Don't touch dead birds warning as avian flu detected in north Belfast

By Q Radio News

Don't touch sick or dead birds is the message from the Public Health Agency after avian flu was detected in two wild birds retrieved from the Waterworks park in north Belfast.

Dr Philip Veal from the Public Health Agency said it is rare for a human to become infected with avian influenza but urged people to follow this advice to prevent any risk to health:

- Do not pick up or touch sick, dying or dead poultry or wild birds, and keep pets away from them

- Avoid contact with surfaces contaminated with bird faeces

- Avoid untreated bird feathers (such as those found in the environment) and other bird waste

- Maintain good personal hygiene with regular hand washing with soap and use of alcohol-based hand rubs

"The symptoms of avian influenza in humans vary considerably depending on the strain or subtype of the virus involved," Dr Veal said.

"Most infections take the form of a flu-like illness, such as fever, cough, body or muscle pain, sore throat, runny nose.

"Other symptoms can include conjunctivitis – red, sore and discharging eyes.”

If you find dead waterfowl (ducks, geese or swans) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) helpline on 0300 200 7840.