Signage Solutions: Avian Influenza & Animal Disease Control

Take action! New signage to help prevent the spread of bird flu outbreaks across the UK

With a growing number of reports relating to avian influenza outbreaks across the UK, biosecurity and disease prevention have become a growing concern for many businesses - particularly those in the farming, agriculture, and park / recreation industries.

Although transmission to humans is currently low and primarily involves people in frequent contact with birds and poultry, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take the necessary precautions to minimise those risks. Inside is a range of signs and products which can help educate, inform and advise, and to encourage best practice in terms of hygiene and safety.

Avian Influenza primarily affects birds, however some strains can infect other animals, including domestic pets such as cats and dogs, especially if they come into contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Exposure to environments contaminated with the virus, such as faeces or feathers from infected birds, can also lead to infection. Cats are more susceptible to avian influenza than dogs, with some strains causing illness in cats.

If possible, do not touch or handle wild birds or their droppings. Keep your distance from wild birds as much as possible – aim to stay at least 2 metres away if you can. In Great Britain, members of the public are encouraged to report findings of dead wild birds using the online reporting system or by calling the Defra helpline: 03459 33 55 77.

Reporting dead wild birds helps Defra and APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) understand the risk of avian influenza and other diseases to different species groups of wild birds, and supports UKHSA’s understanding of the risk to humans.

There is currently no bird flu vaccine and the seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to protect against bird flu. Although transmission to humans is currently low and primarily involves people in frequent contact with birds and poultry, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take the necessary precautions to minimise those risks.

In response to the recent outbreak, we have developed an Avian Influenza and Animal Disease catalogue in order to educate and advise readers of the risks to themselves, wild life and domesticated animals. Inside you can find a range of newly designed signs to help businesses comply with biosecurity measures and reduce the risk of disease spread. These products focus on hygiene protocols, movement control, restricted access, and animal disease prevention.

For information on how to access the catalogue, email support@caledoniasigns.co.uk