HEALTH officials at two major council have moved to reassure the public, while urging to remain cautious, over the outbreak of Avian Flu in Chirk.

The outbreak was confirmed last week by Defra officials as near to Chirk, with an immediate 3km control zone established, with a wider 10km zone also set up.

Rachel Robinson, director of health at Shropshire Council, says while the disease is primarily in birds, transmission to humans may still be possible as a result of direct contact.

She added: "While transmission of avian influenza viruses to people is extremely rare, transmission may occur as a result of direct contact with infected poultry or other birds or their faeces which can cause illness in the human population.

"People who are concerned or require further advice should seek medical advice by calling NHS 111. Avian influenza is not airborne, except over very short distances.

It is spread by movement of infected birds or contact with respiratory secretions and in particular faeces, either directly or through contaminated objects, clothes and vehicles.

“We are therefore asking the public to be vigilant, and keepers of birds in the affected area within Shropshire to monitor their general health and wellbeing.

"Please contact your vet if you have any concerns; however, if you suspect avian influenza, you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline.

“Please also ensure appropriate cleaning and disinfection takes place, to reduce the risk of the virus spreading.”

Meanwhile, a spokesman for Wrexham Borough Council said they were working closely with their Shropshire counterparts.

They added: "The Control Zones extend from Wrexham into Shropshire and we’re working together to keep residents up to date and to control the spread of the infection.

"The risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency has said that bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers.

"Properly cooked eggs and poultry are safe to eat.

"Commercial poultry keepers in the area have been informed and will be putting in place increased biosecurity measures to protect their birds."

For more, head to https://gov.wales/avian-influenza or the Defra website at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu or phone 03459 33 55 77 for the Defra Helpline, where you can also report a dead bird.