Accessibility statement

Increase in bird flu cases

Posted on 28 January 2025

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) are reporting an increase in bird flu in both kept poultry and wild birds across the UK.

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), a control aimed at minimising contact between kept and wild birds, is now in place in neighbouring East Yorkshire, Kingston Upon Hull and Lincolnshire.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advise that bird flu is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low.

As you will be aware, we have a diverse bird population across the campus. The Government advice is that you can feed wild birds but you should wash your hands with soap and water afterwards. In the event that you come into contact with any bird faeces or feathers etc you should also wash your hands in the same manner.

Do not touch or move any dead or sick wild birds. If you see any sick or dead birds on campus, please report it to:

  • The University Helpdesk (9am to 3pm, weekdays) on 01904 325555
  • Campus Safety (all other times) on 01904 324444

The information will be passed onto our Grounds team who will respond in the appropriate manner.