Seasonal flu affecting birds has arrived in Wellingborough. The lethal strain involved is H1N1, commonly known as bird flu. It can jump to humans and potentially kill us as well.
A century ago, a flu strain known as Spanish Flu hit the world. Genetically, it was almost identical to H1N1.
In 1918-1919, Spanish Flu killed an estimated 50 million people. There is a cemetery in Hamburg in Germany, where an entire field is devoted to the graves of those it killed during that terrible winter.
The Embankment on the River Nene is normally a scene of serene calmness, with dozens of swans drifting over the water. They are wild, but accustomed to humans, and regularly get fed.
In just a few days, bird flu has killed several of them. Other birds in the area are also at risk, and we could well see other birds dying.
Bird flu is contagious and dangerous.
Do not to touch any birds that seem to be suffering.
If you find dead or sick birds, report it on the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 or online via the Government website.
This yeSeasonal flu affecting birds has arrived in Wellingborough. The lethal strain involved is H1N1, commonly known as bird flu. It can jump to humans and potentially kill us as well.
A century ago, a flu strain known as Spanish Flu hit the world. Genetically, it was almost identical to H1N1.
In 1918-1919, Spanish Flu killed an estimated 50 million people. There is a cemetery in Hamburg in Germany, where an entire field is devoted to the graves of those it killed during that terrible winter.
The Embankment on the River Nene is normally a scene of serene calmness, with dozens of swans drifting over the water. They are wild, but accustomed to humans, and regularly get fed.
In just a few days, bird flu has killed several of them. Other birds in the area are also at risk, and we could well see other birds dying.
Bird flu is contagious and dangerous.
Do not to touch any birds that seem to be suffering.
If you find dead or sick birds, report it on the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 or online via the Government website.
This year, there is an additional risk. H3N2 had re-emerged. It was the strain that caused the Hong Kong Flu pandemic, which killed around one million people in 1968/9.
H3N2 briefly re-emerged in 2003/4 (as Fujian flu). This year, it has re-appeared, more virulent than for many years.
The strong advice of Nene Herald is to get this year’s flu vaccination to protect yourself and your family.ar, there is an additional risk. H3N2 had re-emerged. It was the strain that caused the Hong Kong Flu pandemic, which killed around one million people in 1968/9.
H3N2 briefly re-emerged in 2003/4 (as Fujian flu). This year, it has re-appeared, more virulent than for many years.
The strong advice of Nene Herald is to get this year’s flu vaccination to protect yourself and your family.
