University of Bristol (United Kingdom) Recruits Rural Producers and Poultry Farmers for Research on Avian Influenza

The University of Bristol has launched a major study of avian influenza and is recruiting poultry farmers, bird keepers and others involved with domestic and wild birds in the UK. The goal is to better understand the spread of avian influenza, a highly contagious disease that affects both birds and humans, and to develop effective measures to control its spread.

The study is particularly relevant following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in 2022/3, which was confirmed on more than 150 poultry farms in England. Also, four people who had contact with infected birds were found to have the virus, reinforcing concerns about zoonotic transmission (from animals to humans) of the disease.

Objectives of the study

The research aims to answer several important questions:

• Significance of Bird Flu: How do bird keepers perceive the importance of bird flu in the UK?
• Life Safety Measures: What strategies are being implemented to prevent the spread of the virus?
• Public Health Schemes: Are current programs scalable amid rising infections?
• Engagement: What is the best way to involve farmers and ranchers in the public health response?
• Local Spreads: How will bird flu outbreaks unfold in the UK?

Public engagement

The study, led by Professor Ellen Brooks-Pollock, is being carried out in collaboration with the University of the West of England. The team is seeking participation from new farmers and people working with poultry to design the study and ensure its relevance. Public servants can participate in a number of ways, including:

• Study Design: Provide advice on research design.
• Material Review: Review study materials to ensure clarity and accuracy.
• Disclosure: Help recruit participants and promote the study.
• Writing and Abstracts: Write blogs or summaries in accessible language to broaden understanding of the study.

All public servants are paid for their time in accordance with National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) guidelines on public engagement. To date, these collaborators have been instrumental in formulating the research questions and conducting the study.

This study represents an important opportunity to understand avian influenza and develop effective strategies to protect avian and human health in the UK.