Avian Flu Suspected Dungannon Poultry Farm Control Measures Activated

Bird flu is suspected at a poultry farm near Dungannon. Officials started disease control actions right away. Brian Dooher is Northern Ireland’s chief vet. He made the decision based on several things, including bird symptoms and lab results from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute. They also found bird flu in some wild birds.

Andrew Muir is the Agriculture Minister. He said they found a possible bird flu case on Friday, February 14. Initial tests hinted at a serious type of bird flu. So, the vet made a careful decision to cull the birds (64,000). They will also set up Temporary Control Zones to stop the disease from spreading further.

This case follows one near Magherafelt. Muir says we cannot relax our guards and that all bird owners must follow strict rules to protect their birds from getting sick. They must also report any concerns ASAP. A prevention zone started January 18, legally requiring strong biosecurity.

A housing order began on February 17. It says all birds, including pets and farm birds, must stay inside to keep them apart from wild birds. Dooher urged everyone to protect their birds, stating that good biosecurity is super important and to follow all prevention rules.

Labs are testing samples to confirm the exact flu strain. If confirmed, control zones will change, becoming a Protection Zone covering three kilometers, and a Surveillance Zone covering ten kilometers around.

Details about the control zones are online and can be found on the DAERA website. The public is asked to report any dead waterfowl they see, which includes swans, geese, or ducks, as well as any dead gulls. Report five or more dead wild birds at one spot. Call the DAERA helpline at 0300 200 7840.