Warning to dog walkers after bird flu outbreak in Roundhay Park in Leeds
Dog walkers in Leeds have been asked to be extra careful following a bird flu outbreak at a city park.
Warning signs are in place at the Wetherby Road entrance to Roundhay Park.
"Bird flu has been detected in this area. Don't risk spreading it." the sign reads.
It follows similar signs being put in place at Golden Acre Park, in Bramhope back in January.
At the time Leeds city council confirmed 'a small number' of cases had been detected but that risk to the public was low.
Avian flu, also known as bird flu, is an infectious type of influenza that spreads among birds.
The NHS states that the flu rarely affects humans, however, it can spread through close contact with an infected bird.
The sign warns that walkers should remain on the designated foot paths with dogs kept on leads at all times.
"Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings," the sign reads.
"If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds."
Walkers are asked to report any dead wild waterfowl such as swans or ducks) and any other dead wild birds to Defra's helpline.
A spokesperson for Defra, told the YEP:
"We are aware of a number of wild bird deaths reported from several locations in England. These deaths are currently under investigation as part of the APHA’s on-going wild bird surveillance programme.
"Dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, should be reported to the Defra helpline (03459 335577). Members of the public should not pick up any dead or visibly sick birds."