The following is an information message from GLASS for affiliated club members:
Avian influenza (bird flu) is a highly infectious notifiable disease affecting many species of birds, including commercial, wild and pet birds. Countryside users need to be aware of the following - DEFRA advise that if you find a dead swan, goose or duck or three or more dead wild, or garden birds together in the same place, please report this to Defra, via the Defra Helpline on 08459 33 55 77. They will advise you on what action you should take. If the dead bird is a single, small garden, or wild bird then you do not need to call Defra. You should leave it alone, or follow the guidelines below for disposal. Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people and some simple hygiene precautions should minimise the risk. It is hard for people to catch avian influenza from birds. If you have to move a dead bird
1. Avoid touching the bird with your bare hands
2. If possible, wear disposable protective gloves when picking up and
handling
3. Place the dead bird in a suitable plastic bag, preferably leak proof. Care should be taken not to contaminate the outside of the bag
4. Tie the bag and place it in a second plastic bag
5. Remove gloves by turning them inside out and then place them in the second plastic bag. Tie the bag and dispose of in the normal household refuse bin.
6. Hands should then be washed thoroughly with soap and water
7. If disposable gloves are not available, a plastic bag can be used as a make-shift glove. See DEFRAs website for up to date info www.defra.gov.uk In the event of serious outbreak, DEFRA may introduce movement restrictions in limited areas. Members should observe any access restrictions on Rights of Way, Highways, or Access Land. Bird faeces may be a source of contamination, assist in any tyre or footwear washing exercises. GLASS adds - Farmyards, game birds etc. - members could find some poultry keepers
take unofficial measures to restrict access. Whilst these may be
unnecessary, do have some sympathy for those whose livelihoods are at risk before insisting on your right to passage, and think about alternative routes.
Ross Kennedy
-- GLASS RoW officer
http://www.glass-uk.org
