The UK's Animal and Plant Health Agency reports the discovery of 4 dead seals on the Norfolk coast in England, two of which have been diagnosed with avian influenza causing pneumonia and encephalitis. With 38% of the world's grey seals living in the UK, the health risks to these animals are of major global significance. This is also a cause for concern for England's largest seal colony at Blakeney Point, where around 4 000 pups are brought in each year. It is thought that the seals may have been infected by feeding on the remains of infected birds.

Specialists warn that the avian influenza virus is constantly changing and adapting to new organisms, making it an increasing threat not only to birds but also to a wide range of mammal species. Migratory wild waterfowl are the main carriers of the virus and often do not get sick themselves but spread the infection.

It has been shown that terrestrial carnivores, such as foxes, can also be infected by the virus through contact with carcasses of infected birds. Although these animals can become ill, there is insufficient evidence that these species are significantly involved in the spread of the disease.

Fowl flu is a threat to both wildlife and the economy. This year alone, 82 outbreaks of avian influenza on poultry farms have been reported in Europe. More than 5.6 million birds have already died and been culled.

In view of the growing threat of avian influenza, the State Food and Veterinary Service (SVVT) urges poultry farmers to take biosecurity measures: to avoid visiting avian influenza outbreaks and gathering places of wild birds, especially near water bodies; and to properly protect feed and watering places from wild birds and other potential carriers of the virus. It is recommended that poultry are kept indoors or in enclosures with protective shelters during the bird migration. Poultry farms must take biosecurity measures to control access by unauthorised persons and animals, regularly disinfect vehicles, and keep feed out of reach of wild birds and rodents. The health of the birds must be monitored on the farm and mortality recorded in order to detect disease outbreaks in time to stop the spread of the disease.

Residents are also advised to remain vigilant – avoid contact with wild birds, keep dogs on a leash, and practice good hygiene when outdoors.