Avian Influenza Update No. 5 of 2025
Avian Influenza Update No. 5 of 2025 (pdf 504Kb)
Biosecurity Codes of Practice for Poultry (pdf 3,385Kb)
- A case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI H5N1) was confirmed in a common buzzard in Co. Wiclow on the 19th of February.
- This is the sixth confirmed case of the virus in a wild bird in Ireland since December 2024.
- The Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has received preliminary positive results for HPAI in two different premises in Co. Tyrone. Temporary control zones of 3km and 10km have been introduced.
- Previously, HPAI was confirmed in Northern Ireland in a flock of laying hens in Co. Tyrone on the 20th of January.
- From 17th February 2025, it is a compulsory requirement for bird keepers to house all poultry and captive birds in their possession or under their control in a secure building.
- Under this regulation, it is not permitted to organise or take part in events which involve the assembly of live birds from different premises e.g. shows, fairs, markets or sales, in order to protect the birds themselves from the risk of becoming infected.
- The Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) introduced similar measures in Northern Ireland effective from 17th February 2025 also.
- All flock owners are reminded to continue implementing the highest levels of biosecurity. Housing of poultry and captive birds alone will not protect birds from the threat of avian influenza virus. Biosecurity still remains the #1 method in preventing and controlling the spread of disease.
- Members of the public are reminded not to touch sick or dead wild birds.
- Poultry keepers are reminded to remain vigilant for any suspicions of avian influenza in their flocks, and to report such suspicions to their Regional Veterinary Office or the National Disease Emergency Hotline 01 492 8026 without delay.
Further information on avian influenza is also available online on the DAFM website: gov.ie - Avian Influenza (bird flu)