Advice from DEFRA
Precautions
Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people. If dead birds are handled, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible. Avoid touching your face and certainly do not eat until you have washed your hands. Clean any soiling on clothing with soap and water.
Guidance on handling and disposing of dead garden and wild birds
The advice given here applies in all circumstances where members of the public may come across a dead bird, regardless of whether there is any avian influenza in the UK. For information on the disposal of poultry please see the Fallen Stock page of the DEFRA website.
The Emergency Planning Officer with Environmental Health is working together as part of a wider initiative with Norfolk County Council. Meetings are held on a weekly basis to ensure effective communication and that relevant people are kept informed. Public safety is our primary responsibility and we are doing everything possible to ensure this.
The response to Avian Flu is being co-ordinated at a national level by DEFRA and by the State Veterinary Service (SVS) office in Bury St Edmunds at a regional level. We are in constant communication with these agencies to ensure that we are kept fully informed.
We are recommending people remain calm. DEFRA have still assessed the risk of human infection from the H5N1 strain of Avian Influenza, in the UK as very low.
If any member of the public has any concerns regarding this issue they can contact Great Yarmouth Borough Council (01493 846478) in the first instance. There is also a wealth of information on the DEFRA website at www.defra.gov.uk
DEFRA helpline 08459 335577.