Avian cholera, a disease that can quickly kill bird populations, has been diagnosed in six dead seagulls, Newfoundland and Labrador's chief veterinarian reported Tuesday.

Hugh Whitney said the disease poses minimal risk to humans.

Hugh Whitney called on the public to avoid contact with birds they suspect may be infected with avian cholera.
(CBC)

However, the disease can cause what Whitney described as "large-scale die-offs in waterfowl and other bird populations."

Sick gulls have been reported at various offshore sites. As well, investigators are responding to reports of gull infections around the St. John's area, particularly at Quidi Vidi Lake in the city's east end.

Quidi Vidi Lake is a frequent stop for seagulls, and is near both a large landfill and the Atlantic Ocean.

Whitney advised the public to avoid contact with birds that may be infected, and to keep pets away.

"The risk in contact with the sick or dead birds may include a skin infection if exposure is with an open cut," Whitney said in a statement.

The disease has so far been found in three gull species: great black-backed gulls, glaucous gulls and black-legged kittiwakes.

Disease can spread to other species

Avian cholera, a bacteria-based disease, can spread to other bird species, particularly scavengers such as crows, ravens and eagles.

"Affected birds may be seen lying on the ground, circling in the water with their heads twisting in different directions or found dead in areas where gulls roost," Whitney said.

"Death is usually very quick."

Whitney called on poultry farmers to look after their stock and to try to keep gulls and scavengers from their premises.