Investigation underway into third suspected bird flu case in Co. Tyrone

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) this evening (Tuesday, February 24) confirmed that it is investigating a third suspected case of bird flu in Co. Tyrone.

The case was first reported at a commercial poultry premises, near Cookstown, Co Tyrone yesterday (Sunday, February 23).

According to DAERA preliminary test results indicate the “presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza” (HPAI).

The commercial poultry premises has 32,000 birds and the department said that “all poultry will be humanely culled”.

Because of the initial positive findings Temporary Control Zones (TCZs) have also been established. 

Bird flu

Northern Ireland’s Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, said it had been a difficult week for the local poultry sector with three commercial premises either confirmed or suspected to have bird flu.

Minister Muir has stressed that his department “is urgently responding and carrying out robust disease control actions, including the humane culling of affected poultry and cleansing and disinfection”.

DAERA previously detailed that there has been a confirmed case of bird flu  at a commercial poultry premises near Dungannon, Co. Tyrone and that it is also   continuing to investigate a suspected case in a commercial poultry premises near Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone.

The estimated number of birds that will be culled as a result of these investigations into bird flu is likely to be in the region of 110,000 in Northern Ireland.

According to Minister Muir “biosecurity is the greatest weapon” that Northern Ireland has to fight bird flu.

“It is crucial that all bird keepers adhere to stringent biosecurity measures to protect their flock and report any suspicious cases immediately.

“I strongly encourage all bird keepers to familiarise themselves with the guidance provided by my department,” the minister said.

He also said that DAERA is working closely “with industry stakeholders along with our counterparts in Great Britain and Ireland to stop the spread of this disease”.