More than 50 swans have died from a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu at a site in east London, with authorities confirming the outbreak and urging the public to avoid contact with any dead or visibly sick birds in the area.
At least 30 swans were recovered at West India and Millwall Docks on Monday, with a further 21 found at the same location on Wednesday. The Animal and Plant Health Agency confirmed through its dead wild bird surveillance scheme that the deaths were caused by H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza, one of the most severe strains of the virus.
The Swan Sanctuary rescue charity has described the current strain circulating in London’s Docklands as particularly lethal and infectious, noting it appears to be having a pronounced impact on young cygnets born earlier in the spring.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza is capable of causing severe disease and high mortality rates in affected birds, distinguishing it from the many other strains of avian flu that typically cause little or no illness in wild bird populations.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency has issued public health guidance in response to the outbreak. Members of the public are advised not to touch or pick up any bird found dead or appearing visibly unwell. Anyone who has handled wild bird droppings or feathers, or who feeds wild birds in the affected area, is urged to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water afterwards.
The charity E1 Waterbird Welfare has been involved in recovering the dead birds at the docks as the situation continues to be monitored.
