As the weather gets warmer, the evenings longer and the school holidays have begun, the HSE is reminding people not to handle or touch sick or dead wild birds to protect themselves from bird flu (Avian Flu).
As people spend more time outdoors over the summer months they may come across dead and sick wild birds, according to the Director of the HSE Health Protection Service, Dr Eamonn O’Moore.
Dr O’Moore said:
“Although it is very unusual for people to catch bird flu, it can happen. We are advising people not to pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds, and to keep their pets away from them. Bird flu is a type of influenza that affects birds and while it is rare that humans can become infected, it can cause serious disease. Bird flu is not human to human transmissible.
People should also avoid contact with surfaces contaminated with bird faeces and should not handle bird feathers they find in the wild. It is always best practice in general, to regularly wash hands with soap and water or to clean your hands with alcohol-based hand gel when out in the wild.
Anyone who comes across dead or sick wild birds can notify the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine via the Avian Check App or call the Avian Influenza Helpline Number (076) 1064403 or 1850 2000456 (outside of normal office hours),” said Dr O’Moore.