A case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) from the H5N1 strain has been confirmed in four wild swans at Chew Valley Lake. The birds had been found by Bristol Water and were already dead.
Humans and other animals can be infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza through close contact with live infected birds. The cases of this occurring are extremely rare and the risk to human health is normally negligible.
However, B&NES Council is advising members of the public who choose to visit the area to be more careful. Bristol Water who own the site have closed off certain areas and are also warning people who visit their site to take care.