Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease

Advice on what to do if you suspect there is an outbreak of avian influenza.

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How to control avian influenza

The Notifiable Avian Diseases Control Strategy sets out the disease control measures we would take if Avian Influenza was suspected or confirmed in the UK. 

All birds on the infected premises would be humanely culled for disease control and animal welfare purposes. Disease control zones may be declared with movement restrictions and controls on birds, meat, eggs, and anything likely to spread disease within the zones.

The outbreak will be controlled in line with the contingency plan for exotic notifiable diseases.

A full epidemiological investigation is carried out at the infected premises, with the aim of establishing the source and potential onward spread of the virus. Gov.uk has published reports of recent investigations.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in Scotland and in other parts of the UK. Read more at avian influenza outbreaks, including details of the current disease response plan in place.

Contact

Email: Animal.Health@gov.scot (however, only report any dead wild bird findings via 03459 33 55 77)

Animal Health and Welfare 
Scottish Government
Agriculture and Rural Economy Directorate
Saughton House
Edinburgh

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