In April 2006, when the H5N1 virus was identified in a wild swan in Fife, the Scottish Avian Flu Contingency Plan was put into effect. There have so far been no further cases of this strain of the virus in Scotland.
In the event of a future outbreak, there is only a very small risk of the disease being spread by recreational access. Therefore, there is no requirement to restrict walkers, nor will there be any blanket “closure” of the countryside that was so damaging in the 2001 foot and mouth disease outbreak.
The contingency plan states:
“The countryside will be kept open and a presumption in favour of access will be maintained.”
Risk can be eliminated by avoiding direct contact between people and/or vehicles and birds/poultry. Local authorities will have the power to close land outwith the infected area, but only after approval by Scottish Ministers. All closures must be specific and time limited. Ramblers Scotland continues to monitor the situation.
Walkers should avoid touching dead birds, and report anything unusual to the government helpline on 08459 335577.
For more information see
Scottish Government bird flu information
Scotland’s Avian Flu Contingency Plan
For information on Foot and Mouth Disease see
Lessons of Foot and Mouth
