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Information for veterinarians, wildlife carers and rangers

H5 bird flu is a notifiable disease. Veterinarians, wildlife carers and rangers must report suspected cases as soon as possible.

You can report suspected cases by:

Guidance for veterinarians

Private veterinarians can access the National H5 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Guidelines for Veterinarians.

The guidelines help veterinarians:

  • reduce the risk of introducing H5 bird flu into their premises
  • prevent disease spread
  • manage suspected or confirmed cases of H5 bird flu.

This advice has been developed for veterinarians who may be required to investigate suspect avian influenza outbreaks in sick or dead poultry, wild birds or wild animals.

Clinical signs of H5 bird flu in birds

Birds infected with H5 bird flu may show:

  • sudden death, including mass mortality events
  • lethargy or reluctance to walk, eat or drink
  • drooping posture or ruffled feathers
  • neurological signs, such as tremors, poor coordination, unusual postures, inability to stand or walk, or seizures
  • respiratory signs, such as panting, nasal discharge, coughing or sneezing
  • swelling around the head and neck
  • watery or green diarrhoea.

In poultry, signs may also include:

  • purple discolouration or bruising of wattles, combs and legs
  • a sudden drop in egg production.

Infected wild mammals may show a wide range of clinical signs, including:

  • neurological signs, including paralysis, tremors or seizures
  • respiratory signs
  • sudden death, including mass mortality events.

Birds can carry the influenza virus without showing signs of illness.

H5 bird flu in mammals

The H5N1 strain of HPAI can infect a broad range of mammals.

Animals that scavenge dead or dying birds may be at greater risk. This includes:

  • red foxes
  • harbour seals
  • grey seals
  • Eurasian otters
  • common dolphins
  • harbour porpoises.

Large outbreaks have been reported in marine mammals.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Heat and sunlight can quickly inactivate avian influenza viruses, but the virus can survive longer in some conditions. Treat all dead animals as potentially infectious.

Using PPE correctly is an effective way to reduce the risk of infection.

When handling sick or dead animals:

  • avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • cover cuts and grazes with a waterproof dressing before putting on PPE
  • do not eat or drink while wearing PPE
  • remove PPE safely and in the correct order
  • wash your hands and face after removing PPE
  • shower at the end of your shift before handling other animals.

The recommended PPE includes:

  • disposable waterproof gloves
  • a long-sleeved clothing
  • a P2 or N95 mask, where available
  • eye protection
  • enclosed footwear.

The PPE you need will depend on the level of risk associated with the work you are doing.

Seasonal influenza vaccination

People who work with poultry or wild birds should have a current seasonal influenza vaccination at least 2 weeks before contact with infected birds.

The seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect against avian influenza. However, it reduces the risk of infection with both human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

For more information, download the Bird Flu Toolkit for people who work with birds.

Biosecurity

Good biosecurity helps protect birds, wildlife and people from disease.

You should:

  • not collect or handle birds without appropriate PPE
  • limit contact between kept birds and wild birds
  • keep aviaries, equipment and enclosures clean
  • clean surfaces thoroughly with detergent before applying disinfectant
  • quarantine new birds before introducing them to other birds
  • wash your hands before and after handling birds
  • keep pets away from wildlife
  • train staff in biosecurity procedures.

Dispose of dead birds safely

Where possible, leave dead wildlife where it is found so it can decompose naturally.

If this is not appropriate, disposal options include:

  • burial on site, where permitted
  • double bagging and disposal with general waste.

Read more on how to dispose of dead birds.

Mental health support

H5 bird flu outbreaks can cause stress, anxiety and grief, particularly for veterinarians, wildlife carers, rangers and others who work with animals.

If you need support, talk to your GP or another healthcare professional, or contact:

Bird flu