Residents and visitors to the riverside are being urged to exercise caution following confirmation that Avian influenza has been detected in the wild goose population along the River Avon.
Following testing by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), the H5N1 strain of the virus has been confirmed in a number of local geese. While this strain is highly infectious among bird populations, health officials emphasize that the risk to human health remains very low.
However, local authorities—including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Warwickshire County Council, and Stratford-on-Avon District Council—are working together to manage the spread and are asking for the public’s help to keep everyone safe.
How to Stay Safe Along the River
If you are walking near the river or in surrounding areas where wild birds congregate, please follow these guidelines to protect yourself and local wildlife:
- Do not touch: Avoid contact with any sick or dead birds, their feathers, or surfaces contaminated with droppings.
- Keep to the path: Stick to designated footpaths.
- Dogs on leads: Ensure your pets are kept on leads and away from the water’s edge and wildlife.
- Do not feed the birds: Authorities are specifically asking the public to stop feeding wild birds for the time being.
- Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after your walk. While alcohol hand sanitiser (at least 60%) can be used, soap and water is the most effective method.
What the Experts Say
Mamoona Tahir, Consultant in Health Protection leading on avian influenza for UKHSA West Midlands, provided reassurance regarding human safety:
“The risk to the public from this strain of avian flu is very low, however it is important that people do not touch any sick or dead birds. As a precaution, anyone who may have come into contact with the droppings or birds in an area where the infection has been confirmed will be monitored and offered a course of antiviral medication if needed.”
Councillor Anne-Marie Sonko, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health at Warwickshire County Council, added:
“We are working closely with Stratford-on-Avon District Council and partner agencies to ensure the health and safety of residents in Stratford. We are asking people not to feed wild birds at this time, not to touch or move dead birds, and to keep their dogs away from them.”
Dr Shade Agboola, Director of Public Health at Warwickshire County Council, stated:
“The incidence of avian flu in the wild bird population is something that we are taking very seriously. The UKHSA has made it clear that the risk of the disease transferring from birds to humans is considered to be very low. To ensure this situation remains, members of the public should not touch or go near sick or dying birds and any dead birds found should be reported to DEFRA.”
Reporting and Contact Information
If you see a sick or dead bird:
It is likely the virus is circulating more widely in Warwickshire than just the immediate Stratford area. If you spot dead or clearly sick birds on private land or by waterways:
- Do not touch them.
- Report them immediately to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.
- Alternatively, visit the Report dead wild birds page on GOV.UK.
If you have touched a sick bird or droppings:
If you have come into contact with wild birds or their droppings in an infected area without the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Thoroughly clean your footwear.
- Wash your hands immediately with soap and water.
- Contact the UK Health Security Agency’s West Midlands Health Protection Team on 0344 225 3560.
Public health experts will assess if you require active surveillance or antiviral medication.
