Bird flu safety advice is highlighted

Gordon MP Richard Thomson is urging local residents and visitors to follow safety advice issued by Aberdeenshire Council following the removal of hundreds of dead birds from beaches in the region.

Mr Thomson said: “I’m grateful to council staff who are responding to the reports from local residents and taking action to get beaches around the Aberdeenshire coast cleaned up.

“Avian Influenza continues to be endemic within the wild bird population. Sadly, it continues to have a dramatic impact on seabirds which come to the north-east at this time of year to feed and breed.

"The result is a dramatic rise in the number of dead birds being washed up on our coastline.

“It’s very sad that so many birds have been affected but the advice is that our beaches are still safe to enjoy this summer and the threat of transmission from dead birds to humans is very low.

“There are other diseases however, that can be picked up from dead animals so there are a number of simple measures people should follow to maintain strict hygiene standards, including not picking up or touching dead or dying birds.”

Aberdeenshire Council is urging people to continue reporting incidents of dead birds – both to Defra on 03459 335577 and, if they come across large numbers of birds in popular areas, via the council’s online reporting form at www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/environment/animal-health/dead-birds

But remember to follow this safety advice at all times:

• Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds.

• Keep pets/dogs away from any dead or sick birds.

• Don't feed wild waterfowl.

• Don't touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with droppings.

If people find a live but sick bird call the SSPCA on 03000 999999 for advice – however please note that due to the current situation they should not bring any wild birds to their animal rescue and rehoming centres.

For people who keep poultry or other birds, it is vital that they wash their hands and clean and disinfect their footwear before tending to their birds.

Visit www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu for more details on avian influenza.

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