Avian flu warning as cases rise across UK

Wed, 15 Dec 2021

People are asked not to handle sick or dead birds on the Isle of Man after a surge in avian influenza cases in the UK and Northern Ireland.

While no cases have been reported on Island, the risk level is considered the same as the UK, where tens of thousands of farmed birds have had to be culled in recent weeks.

The disease is largely spread by infected wild birds coming into contact with kept birds.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) strongly advises that keepers minimise the people in contact with their birds and regularly disinfect equipment and boots.

It also recommends people house birds where possible in a way that reduces contact with wild birds, which should be kept away from all feed, water and bedding.