A dead seabird has tested positive for bird flu in Blackpool and other birds in the area are displaying symptoms of the illness.

Blackpool Council say the risk to the public is “minimal” but has urged locals and visitors to the popular seaside resort to avoid contact with wild birds.

A Blackpool Council spokesperson said: “For a number of months there have been reports around the country that avian influenza is affecting seabirds.

“We have now witnessed some seabirds in Blackpool displaying symptoms and unfortunately one dead bird has tested positive for Avian influenza.

“The risk to public health is minimal but please avoid contact with wild birds and ensure dogs keep their distance.

“If you see an unwell or dead bird please do not touch it and report it immediately to: DEFRA Rural Services Helpline by calling: 03000 200301.”

There are currently 120 cases of avian influenza H5N1 in England.

Most recently it was reported in commercial poultry at a premises near Ashburton, Teignbridge, Devon.

Several cases of the illness have been reported across Lancashire earlier in the year.

In January, the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at a non-commercial premises near Upholland in West Lancashire.

What is avian influenza and how can you spot it?

Avian influenza mainly affects birds. It can also affect humans and other mammals, although this is rare.

There are two types of avian influenza.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is the more serious type. It is often fatal in birds.

The main clinical signs of HPAI in birds (which can include any or a combination of the following) are:

• sudden and rapid increase in the number of birds found dead
• several birds affected in the same shed or air space
• swollen head
• closed and excessively watery eyes
• lethargy and depression
• recumbency and unresponsiveness
• incoordination and loss of balance
• head and body tremoring
• drooping of the wings and/or dragging of legs
• twisting of the head and neck
• swelling and blue discolouration of comb and wattles
• haemorrhages on shanks of the legs and under the skin of the neck
• loss of appetite or marked decrease in feed consumption
• sudden increase or decrease in water consumption
• respiratory distress such as gaping (mouth breathing), nasal snicking (coughing sound), sneezing, gurgling or rattling
• fever or noticeable increase in body temperature
• discoloured or loose watery droppings
• cessation or marked reduction in egg production

If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.

You should call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77) if you find:

• one or more dead bird of prey or owl
• Three or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks) 
• Five or more dead birds of any species

Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find.