Bird Flu kills swans on Cumbria canal

Swans killed by bird flu on Ulverston canal. Stock image of swans
Swans on Ulverston canal have been killed by Bird Flu. Credit: PA file image

Bird Flu has killed a number of swans on a Cumbrian canal South Lakeland District Council has confirmed.

The swans at Ulverston canal were tested by The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) who confirmed the positive results for Avian Flu - also known as Bird Flu.

A statement from South Lakeland District Council said: "The council has been advised that the canal footpath can remain open to the public as the risk is very low.

"Members of the public are, however, being urged to avoid direct contact with wild dead or dying birds and to report wild dead or dying birds."

Public Health England has confirmed that the risk to public health is very low.

DEFRA advice is that the cases are not connected to the coronavirus pandemic.

There have been a small number of cases of Avian Influenza also detected in other parts of England.

The council said: "Bird keepers, including those with domestic poultry should remain alert for any signs of disease, report suspected disease immediately and ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises."