A small number of wild birds have been found dead in west London with suspected bird flu and Royal Parks in the neighbouring borough of Richmond are monitoring the local populations of wild birds, ducks and swans.

The UK is currently suffering its biggest ever outbreak of Avian Influenza, which has seen a national housing order imposed on farmed birds – chicken, turkeys, ducks and geese.

The move is designed to limit the impact of the virus, which is spread via the droppings of wild birds.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said that avian influenza is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public's health is very low. However, it can infect humans and, in very rare circumstances, cause serious illness.

The Food Standards Agency has said that on the basis of the current scientific evidence, avian influenza poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

Richmond Council advises here are number of precautions people can take to avoid contact with a bird with avian influenza:

* When walking along the riverside, keep to footpaths and keep dogs on leads

* Do not feed wild waterfowl (e.g. ducks, swans, geese)

* Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds

* Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings

People are advised to report dead wild waterfowl or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey to Defra's helpline on 03459 335577

If you keep poultry or other birds at your home or work, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds.