RSPCA Isle of Wight Branch Shuts Down Over Avian Flu Scare
The Isle of Wight RSPCA branch has been forced to close amid fears of an avian flu outbreak. The move comes after a bird in isolation showed signs of the deadly disease and was euthanised on vet advice.
Urgent Warning to Public: Don’t Bring in Wild Birds
The Godshill branch staff quickly took to social media urging people not to bring in any wild birds. They described the incident as “very disturbing” and said they are acting fast to stop the virus spreading.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) recommended the temporary shutdown. Staff are now carrying out a deep clean of the isolation units.
Symptoms Monitored as Closure Set to Last Several Days
The centre is closely watching other birds for any signs of avian flu. The closure is expected to last “a few days” while thorough checks take place.
Authorities have also issued a warning not to touch any dead seabirds, as the virus poses a high risk of transmission.
High-Risk Area: No Gulls from Thames Estuary to Island Allowed
National advice has asked the centre to refuse gulls from the south coast area—from the Thames Estuary to the Isle of Wight—due to a significant zoonosis threat (bird-to-human virus transfer).
With avian flu cases rising, the RSPCA’s swift response aims to protect both wildlife and people from this dangerous outbreak.
