Two swans found dead in the Falmouth area have sparked concerns over the spread of Avian Influenza commonly known as bird flu.

Today, Cornwall Council urged residents to steer clear of sick or dead birds after the discovery of the swans.

The bodies were collected by the Animal Plant Health Agency, an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Tests confirmed that both birds were infected with the H5N8 strain of the virus.

Cornwall Council is working with Public Health England, DEFRA and other agencies to closely monitor the situation however there is not believed to be any immediate risk to human health.

Dr Ruth Goldstein, deputy director of Public Health at Cornwall Council, said:

"The risk to human health from Avian Influenza is low and we'd like to reassure residents that this virus is in no way linked to Covid-19.

"While incidents of this nature are rare in Cornwall, multiple species of wild birds have been found to be positive for avian influenza in locations across England."

Wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe and Asia during the winter period can spread the disease to poultry and other captive birds.

Last year an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) was declared across the whole of England in order to prevent the disease spreading. This requires bird keepers to house their animals securely in order to prevent contact with wild birds.

Bird keepers, whether they have hundreds or only one or two birds, are reminded to familiarise themselves with the government's avian flu advice and ensure their birds are housed appropriately.

The UK's Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss added:

"People should avoid contact with dead or sick wild birds and report findings of dead wild birds to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 and select option 7."

Click here for more guidance.

[H3] See the latest news on our Twitter and Facebook pages. [.H2]