A CASE of bird flu has been confirmed in the borough after a wild bird was found dead in Earlestown last week.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have confirmed with St Helens Council that a wild black headed gull found in Earlestown had a confirmed case of bird flu.

The viral disease is dangerous as it can spread quickly among birds and can affect humans in some cases, although the case is not being classed as an outbreak in St Helens.

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Residents asked to be vigilant

As the report of bird flu is a single case in a wild bird, no restrictions are being introduced at the moment but residents are urged to alert authorities if they find a dead gull or water bird around the borough.

Bird owners are also being reminded of the preventative measures in place to help minimise the risk, which includes storing food and bedding materials away from the reach of wild animals and washing shoes after walking into bird enclosures to prevent the risk of spread from outside to your flock.

Residents are encouraged to take the following actions, particularly in and around areas where water birds can be found in the Earlestown area including:

  • Keep to the footpaths with dogs on leads
  • Do not feed wild water bird
  • Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
  • Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings

Council to carry out regular surveillance checks

Councillor Kate Groucutt, Cabinet Member for Economy, Business and Skills, said: “We were informed by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) of a confirmed case of bird flu in a wild black headed gull which was found in Earlestown last week.

"While this might sound concerning there are no new measures that are being introduced because this is a single case in a wild animal, which means it is not classed as an outbreak.

“The public health advice remains that the health risk to humans is low but we must always take the necessary precautions to protect ourselves. In particular anyone who owns birds are being reminded of the necessary biosecurity measures you should take to protect your birds.

"While guidance changed earlier this year removing the need to store flocks indoors you should continue to store food and bedding away from wild birds, and thoroughly cleaning equipment and clothing that you use which could come into contact with wild birds.

“Our team will be carrying out regular surveillance checks in key areas in the surrounding area but most importantly if you see any sick or dead wild birds please report them to the appropriate people.”

To find out more about the measures you can take to protect your own birds visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/birdflu

If you find any wild dead birds please report them online at www.gov.uk/guidance/report-dead-wild-birds or call the Department for Rural Affairs (Defra) on 03459 33 55 7.