How to prevent bird flu as protection zones extend across England and Scotland
A strain of bird flu capable of infecting humans has been detected in recent outbreaks across Scotland and England. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has implemented extended protection and surveillance zones, along with mandatory housing orders for poultry.
H5N1 was first identified as an avian flu strain that could infect humans in 1997. Human cases of bird flu remain rare and it typically does not spread from person to person.
According to the World Health Organisation, the strain has infected 954 people globally over the past 11 years, with 464 fatalities reported as of January 10.
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The NHS has recommended some dos and don'ts you can follow to prevent bird flu.
If you have travelled to a foreign country that has had an outbreak, you should:
Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap, particularly before and after handling food, especially raw poultry
Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw and cooked meat to avoid cross-contamination
Ensure all meat is thoroughly cooked until steaming hot before consumption
Avoid direct contact with live birds and poultry whenever possible
What not to do:
Do not make contact with bird droppings, or sick or dead birds
Do not visit live animal markets or poultry farms
Do not bring live birds, poultry, or feathers back into the UK
Do not consume undercooked or raw poultry, duck, or eggs
Bird flu continues to wreak havoc on bird populations, often forcing authorities to cull entire flocks to prevent the virus from spreading further. In one recent case, a devastating outbreak led to the culling of one million hens at a major UK poultry producer.
Strict government measures have been imposed on bird owners in response to the crisis. In areas with confirmed cases, mandatory indoor confinement of birds is required.
The UK's Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, emphasised the importance of compliance, stating: "I urge bird keepers to check which requirements apply to them. Continue to exercise robust biosecurity measures, remain alert for any signs of disease and report suspected disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency."
Early symptoms of bird flu in humans can develop rapidly and often include a high fever, muscle aches, headaches, and respiratory issues such as coughing or difficulty breathing. Additional warning signs may present as diarrhoea, abdominal and chest pain, nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or even eye infections.
Symptoms usually appear three to five days after exposure to the virus. If left untreated, bird flu can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and organ failure. While there is currently no vaccine for humans, starting antiviral treatment promptly can significantly reduce the risk of serious outcomes.
If you experience any symptoms of bird flu and have been to an area affected by the virus in the past 10 days, the NHS suggests people use NHS 111 online or call NHS 111. Your symptoms can be checked over the phone.
If you're abroad and develop symptoms of bird flu, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. The NHS advises contacting your travel insurance provider for guidance on where to access medical assistance.
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