Dog walkers and people who go to a very popular Leeds park have been asked to be vigilant and observe new guidance after a bird flu outbreak.
Bird flu has been detected at Roundhay Park, and is said to be affecting a lot of swans in the area, making contact between the birds and humans potentially dangerous. Avian flu, also known as bird flu, is an infectious type of influenza that spreads among birds.
The NHS states that the flu rarely affects humans but it can spread through close contact with an infected bird. It has been detected at Roundhay park a number of times, including in June this year when posters were put up asking visitors to be cautious.
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Friends of Roundhay Park have responded to the latest outbreak by halting the sale of duck food and encouraging visitors to stop feeding birds, among a list of other new rules. Other restrictions include keeping to the footpath, avoiding contact with any dead birds, as well washing hands and disinfecting feet before making contact with domestic birds.
A spokesperson for Friends of Roundhay Park said: "We’re saddened to share that avian influenza has been detected in several wild mute swans in Roundhay Park. Although there are currently no implications to the public, a safe distance from sick birds should be maintained.
"It is for this reason that we’ve had to stop selling our duck food for the time being. Dog owners must remain vigilant and keep their dogs on a lead around wildfowl. We’ve attached a poster containing guidance."
Posters outside and around the park carry the same message, reading: "Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings. If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds."
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