An outbreak of avian flu at a park in Oldham has been confirmed by officials after birds were found dead in the boating lake.
Oldham Council said a number of cases of bird flu had been identified at Alexandra Park, a popular park off Kings Road. The boating lake has been closed off 'until further notice'.
All activities on the lake have been banned, including fishing. Visitors have been warned not to feed any birds, or try to touch or rescue any birds that look sick or injured.
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Locals are also being advised to keep their dogs on leads near the water and stay on the pathways when walking through the park. Officials said they will 'continue to monitor the situation'.
Councillor Hannah Roberts, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: "This is very sad news as the birds in Alexandra Park are very popular with visitors. The UK is currently facing its largest ever outbreak of avian flu with cases reported across the country.
"Avian flu has nothing to do with water quality or the environment and poses a low risk to humans. Anyone who keeps birds must, by law, keep them housed and follow strict bio-security measures."
Anyone who spots a dead bird at the park should report it to park staff. This comes after an avian flu outbreak was confirmed at Salford Quays last month, with similar advice issued to residents visiting the redeveloped former docklands.
There is full government advice on avian flu here.
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