No outbreaks have been detected in poultry in Ireland so far. This strain is the same type of avian flu that has been causing problems all over Europe.

This confirms that poultry flocks across the country are at risk from introduction of the virus. The Department once more emphasises the requirement to confine poultry and other birds, and to apply strict bio-security measures to prevent the introduction of avian influenza.

Poultry flock owners should remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their flocks, and report any disease suspicion to their nearest Department Veterinary Office.

The public is advised not to handle sick or dead birds. Department staff will continue to collect sufficient birds for testing to help understand how the disease is distributed geographically, in different species and over time. The Department is being assisted in this task by patrols carried out by rangers from the National Parks and Wildlife Service.