Government issues bird flu warning after infected buzzard found

The government's warning people not to touch sick or dead birds after a wild buzzard which died of bird flu was found in a garden near Bride.

Avian influenza has been confirmed in a number of commercial chicken units and other kept birds in England and Wales, where restrictions are in place.

However, the Manx government says as the virus isn't affecting kept or farmed birds on the Island, no restriction zones have been introduced and the risk to the public is considered low. 

It's asking anyone who finds a group of dead birds together to contact Animal Health on 685844 or by emailing agriculture@gov.im.

Other government advice includes: 

• Do not touch sick or dead birds or let dogs near them
• All well-cooked local eggs and poultry are safe to eat
• Keep a respectful distance from all wild birds on land or at sea
• Bird keepers should practice good biosecurity and hygiene