The Council of the Isles of Scilly would like to thank everyone for following the guidance with regards to avian influenza (bird flu) on the islands. We would like to request that the community remains vigilant and continues to keep to the guidance as we move into the winter months.
- Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
- Keep dogs and other pets away from any dead or sick birds
- Do not feed wild birds
- Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with droppings
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) which was put in place by the UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer on the 31 August 2022 is still in place. This is to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of disease occurring. Once the AIPZ has been amended or removed we will put out further guidance to the public.
Whilst the health risks to the general public are low, Public Health continues to urge people not to feed wild birds to further reduce the risk and stop the virus spreading.
How to report dead or visibly sick wild birds
To report a sick or deceased wild bird please notify the Council or the Wildlife Trust at the details below:
Council: 0300 1234 105 (option 5) or email environment@scilly.gov.uk
Wildlife Trust: 01720 422 153
When calling please provide a description of the bird and its location. You may wish to use the What3words service to pinpoint the location.
What if I keep poultry or other birds?
If you keep poultry or other birds, it is vital that you wash your hands, clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds, and ensure that you are still following good biosecurity measures for poultry and captive birds (Biosecurity and preventing disease in captive birds (publishing.service.gov.uk)). If you keep birds and would like to be added to our email list for further guidance, please contact environmentalhealth@scilly.gov.uk.
What if I come into contact with a wild dead or sick bird?
If you come in contact with wild dead birds and develop flu like symptoms, then please contact your GP or NHS 111. Bird flu - NHS (www.nhs.uk)