Bird flu outbreak in North Yorkshire
Posted on 30 November 2021
The H5N1 virus, which is highly contagious and can kill poultry flocks, has been confirmed at a premises near Thirsk. Temporary control zones of 1.8 miles (3km) and 6.2 miles (10km) have been put in place around the affected site.
While York is not within this control zone, there is a risk of bird flu being present on campus.
Bird flu is a potentially serious disease which is spread by close contact with an infected bird (alive or dead) and it can affect humans.
To protect yourself and others:
- Do not touch infected birds, alive or deceased, even if the bird appears to be in distress
- Do not touch droppings or bedding
If you have concerns about a dead or infected bird on campus please contact the Facilities Helpdesk on fm-helpdesk@york.ac.uk or +44 (0)1904 32 5555.
You cannot catch bird flu through eating fully cooked poultry or eggs, even in areas with an outbreak of bird flu. Also, the seasonal flu vaccine doesn’t protect against bird flu.
If you are concerned or you experience any symptoms of bird flu and have visited an area affected by bird flu in the past 10 days please contact your GP or NHS 111. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bird-flu/