We know you may have questions about bird flu. Here are a list of our most frequently asked questions but if you still have concerns please contact us and we will do our best to present you with the facts in a straightforward, informative manner. Just select a question from the list and the answer will appear.

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The Facts

What is bird flu?
What is H5N1?
How does it spread?
What symptoms does bird flu produce in birds?

History & Outbreaks

When was it first discovered?
Which countries have experienced outbreaks of bird flu?
Which areas of Britain have experienced outbreaks of bird flu?
Has bird flu reached pandemic levels?

Eating Poultry & Eggs

Is it safe to eat poultry?
Is it safe to consume and/or handle uncooked poultry meat?
Is it safe to eat eggs?
Are there measures in place to prevent infected poultry and eggs entering the food chain?
Are controls in place to stop poultry and eggs being imported from affected countries?

Human Health & Effect on Domestic Animals

Does the virus spread easily from birds to humans?
How do people become infected with bird flu?
Which groups of people would be at most risk if we had the disease in poultry in the UK?
Can people get it from other people?
Is there are human vaccination against bird flu?
Can I get bird flu from handling wild birds?
Do pigeons carry and spread bird flu viruses in nature?
What can be done to prevent bird flu infections in domestic cats and dogs?