Bird Flu warning after surge in UK cases

The Manx government has warned against handling sick or dead birds after a surge in avian influenza or 'bird flu' cases.

While no cases have been reported locally, the Manx government said tens of thousands of farmed birds have had to be culled in the UK.

Officials say the risk to human health is low - there is no link to the Covid-19 pandemic - but infected birds should not be touched.

The disease is largely spread by migratory wild birds which return to Britain and pass it on to other birds.

The island's environment department is advising keepers to minimise contact with birds and regularly disinfect equipment and boots.

It also recommends people house birds in a way that reduces contact with wild birds, which should be kept away from all feed, water and bedding.

Information on how to spot avian influenza can be found here.