Confirmed case of bird flu at Sale Water Park: Council issues advice to the public
A case of avian influenza HN51, also known as bird flu, has been confirmed in a wild bird at Sale Water Park, Trafford Council has announced.
The confirmation follows reports last month of a suspected outbreak in the area. The council has now advised park visitors, dog walkers and residents to take precautions to help limit any potential spread and to protect wildlife.
The risk to the public is described as very low, however the council is urging people not to touch or pick up dead or visibly sick wild birds.
A Trafford Council spokesperson said: “We are asking everyone to take a few simple precautions to help limit the spread and protect our wildlife.”
The council’s advice is as follows:
Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds.
Report dead wild birds via the Government website or by calling Defra on 03459 33 55 77.
Avoid touching feathers or surfaces contaminated with bird droppings.
Do not feed wild waterfowl.
If you keep domestic or pet birds, wash your hands and disinfect your footwear before and after tending to them.
If you have recently been in close contact with wild birds and develop flu-like symptoms, call your GP or NHS 111.
Sale Water Park remains open to the public; visitors should stay on footpaths and keep dogs on a lead.
The council said these precautions are routine and sensible steps used whenever cases of avian influenza are identified in wild bird populations across the UK.
