ISLANDERS have been urged not to handle any dead or unwell birds after two cases of bird flu were detected in Jersey.
The government said the virus was detected in two common buzzards, which were found dead earlier this month, and that the disease poses a low risk to humans.
Anaylysts have said one of the birds tested positive for ‘H5 highly pathogenic Avian Influenza A’ while the other had ‘Avian Influenza A’.
Alastair Breed, the government’s chief veterinary officer, said: ‘Whilst it is very disappointing that the avian flu virus has been identified in wild birds in Jersey, it is not entirely surprising given the recent outbreaks in the UK and France.
‘It is now even more important that bird keepers follow good biosecurity principles to prevent contact with wild birds, and house their birds if possible.’
Flocks of 30 or more birds are already required to be registered in Jersey but all poultry owners are now being asked to register their birds with the government. This is aimed at ensuring owners receive updates on bird flu.
Further advice and information can be found by searching online for ‘Government of Jersey avian flu’.
