Portsmouth City Council City Crest

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Dead bird We fully understand public concerns about the threat of Avian Influenza (also known as "Bird Flu"), H5N1 virus and HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) and are working closely with the lead agencies of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Department of Health to provide you with all of the information, support and advice that you need to understand the possible future health risks.

Please let us know via the City Helpdesk on 023 9283 4092 if you can't find what you need by following the external links.

Information about birds or animals

  • If you are aware of large numbers of birds (10 or more) dying in the same area, you should contact the Defra helpline (08459 33 55 77) and choose the Avian Influenza option which is open from 8.30am until 8pm, 7 days a week.
  • If you find any single dead birds or numbers less than 10 on your property, including garden birds, then you do not need to call the Defra helpline.  You should leave the bird/s alone or follow the following advice for disposal.  You can dispose of the bird/s via the normal domestic waste collection service. The bird/s should be picked up using disposable rubber gloves, (if you have no gloves you could wear plastic bags as makeshift gloves), and a spade or shovel if possible. The bird/s should be double wrapped in plastic bags together with the disposable gloves. The bags should be securely tied before being put in the dustbin. After carrying out the disposal you should wash your hands thoroughly in hot soapy water. You should not eat or smoke before washing your hands.
  • If you find a bird in the street, in the park or on other Council land, please contact the City Helpdesk on 023 9283 4092 and they will arrange for collection and disposal.
  • If you need advice about pets or other animals and birds contact your vet or Defra on 08459 33 55 77.

Information about people, travel advice and Latest World News

  • NHS Direct on 0845 46 47, will answer all enquiries about health risks to humans from Bird Flu.
  • The Department of Health website provides information for health professionals and you can also follow links from there to the UK Pandemic Influenza Contingency Plan, the Health Protection Agency and the World Health Organisation.

Useful links

The external links to the right will take you to sites that have useful information.

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