A person working and living amongst poultry which became infected with bird flu in the South West of England has tested positive for the virus.
UK Health Security Agency chiefs reassured the public that transmission of bird flu to humans is extremely rare.
However, the person acquired the infection from ‘very close, regular contact with a large number of infected birds which they kept in and around their home over a prolonged period of time’.
Professor Ian Jones, virologist at the University of Reading, said: “Transfer of avian flu to people is rare as it requires direct contact between an infected, usually dead, bird and the individual concerned.
"It is a risk for the handlers who are charged with the disposal of carcasses after an outbreak but the virus does not spread generally and poses little threat.
“It does not behave like the seasonal flu we are used to.
“Despite the current heightened concern around viruses there is no risk to chicken meat or eggs and no need for public alarm.”
Prof Mike Tildesley, professor in infectious disease modellingat the University of Warwick, added human infections with H5N1 were exceptionally rare - fewer than 1,000 worldwide since 2003 - and they almost always occur as a result of direct, long term contact with poultry.
All poultry keepers have been advised to keep their birds indoors as part of a nationwide lockdown.
Advice to poultry keepers - Defra
All bird keepers must keep a close watch on them for signs of disease and maintain good biosecurity at all times. If you have any concerns about the health of your birds, seek prompt advice from your vet.
Poultry keepers must:
- house or net all poultry and captive birds to keep them separate from wild birds
- cleanse and disinfect clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry and captive birds – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
- reduce the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry and captive birds are kept, to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products, and use effective vermin control
- thoroughly cleanse and disinfect housing on a continuous basis
- keep fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all farm and poultry housing entry and exit points
- minimise direct and indirect contact between poultry and captive birds and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds
Bird flu is anotifiable animal disease. If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.
In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contactyour local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.
