Avian influenza has been confirmed in a number of geese along the river Avon in Stratford-on-Avon
The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have confirmed avian influenza A(H5N1) is currently present in the wild bird population.
Published: 5 January 2026
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is now urging people who are near the river Avon and the surrounding area not to touch any sick or dead wild birds. The UKHSA, Warwickshire County Council and Stratford-on-Avon District Council are working together with APHA to manage the situation, protect public health, and reduce the risk to other birds.
If you find a sick or dead bird, please contact the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 or visit the Report dead wild birds webpage on the GOV.UK website.
The A(H5N1) strain is highly infectious to other birds, but the risk to human health is considered very low. However, it is vital that people do not touch sick birds or dead bird carcasses to avoid the need to introduce further infection control measures.
For those visiting Stratford and the surrounding areas, please:
- Thoroughly wash hands in soap and water. Hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol can be used as an alternative but this is less effective.
- Stay on the footpaths and keep dogs on leads.
- Avoid touching or picking up dead or sick birds.
- Do not handle feathers or any surfaces that may be contaminated by droppings.