Multiple cases have been reported across the county
Avian influenza has been reported in multiple locations across Lancashire among the 81 "highly pathogenic" cases reported UK-wide in October. In recent days, a third and fourth premises in South Ribble reported cases while earlier in the month, Martin Mere Wetland Trust in West Lancs was forced to close to visitors as a result of the outbreak.
Action has now been taken in Blackpool to protect local birds. Stanley Park remains open to the public but access to the lake has been cordoned off as a safety measure.A Blackpool Council spokesperson said: "Due to Avian Influenza bio security measures, the decision has been made to cordon off access to the lake at Stanley Park. We will continue to monitor the birds on the lake and ensure they are fed.
"It is very important that people DO NOT pick up any sick or dead birds they may come across to avoid spreading the virus, which can affect humans in rare cases. There are currently specific rules in the place across the UK for any bird owners, please familiarise and keep yourself updated." Avian influenza spreads from bird to bird by direct contact or through contaminated body fluids and faeces. It can also be spread by contaminated feed and water or by dirty vehicles, clothing and footwear. The avian influenza virus changes frequently, creating new strains, and according to the government's Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, "there is a constant risk that one of the new strains may spread easily among people".
However, the UK Health Security Agency has said that avian influenza is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low.
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