A COUNCIL has warned of the continued threat of bird flu in the area. 

Cases of avian flu were first confirmed in the area at Brighton Marina on June 21.

Now, Brighton and Hove City Council have warned that Avian Influenza is still present in Sussex. 

A spokesman for the council said: “The government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed a number of cases of avian influenza (bird flu) on the Sussex coast. 

“The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said that bird flu is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low. 

“However, do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find and keep dogs on a lead. 

“Anyone who has been in direct touching contact with visibly sick or dead birds should wash your hands immediately.

The Argus: Signs at Queen's ParkSigns at Queen's Park

“For the safety of residents and their dogs, we encourage all dog walkers to keep their dogs on leads if they come across visibly sick or dead birds.

“Brighton and Hove City Council is working with neighbouring local authorities and other partners to contain further spread.” 

It has also issued advice for residents: 

  • Don't feed the seagulls
  • Don't touch dead or sick birds
  • Keep pets away from them
  • Report dead wild birds
  • Follow RSPCA advice if you find a sick bird

Brighton council previously told The Argus it was putting up 150 signs warning about the dangers and what to do.

Twenty five signs were also put up on the seafront.

The Argus: The dead gull spotted on Brighton seafront The dead gull spotted on Brighton seafront

It comes after seagulls were seen dropping out of the sky dead on Brighton beach in early July with suspected bird flu.

The gull plummeted to its death and was witnessed by a man near Brighton Palace Pier.

It was one of three dead seagulls seen by the one man on that day which he reported to the council and one of several that have been found dead on roofs and pavements in the city.