A suspected case of bird flu is being investigated at a commercial poultry site in Northern Ireland, with restrictions imposed on the flock following substantial mortality levels and clinical symptoms consistent with avian influenza.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) confirmed veterinary officers attended the site in County Tyrone on Sunday, where they implemented restrictions and collected official samples for analysis.
Samples sent to UK laboratory
The samples have been sent to the UK National Reference Laboratory at Weybridge, Surrey, with results anticipated on Monday.
Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said: "I recognise the impact this situation is having on the affected flock-keeper, alongside the concern and uncertainty it creates for the wider poultry sector. While the disease has not yet been confirmed, we are treating this situation with the utmost seriousness."
Contingency plans in place
Muir added: "My officials have acted swiftly to investigate the reported case at a commercial poultry premises in Co Tyrone and place the premises under restriction.
"We have robust contingency plans in place and stand ready to implement the measures required to respond at the affected premises should highly pathogenic avian influenza be confirmed.
"In light of these findings, we are actively considering the need for further disease control measures across Northern Ireland, informed by the latest veterinary and epidemiological advice and assessment of risk."
Vigilance urged
Chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher said: "Disease control arrangements have been activated, and contingency planning is under way should highly pathogenic avian influenza be confirmed.
"The premises remains under restriction and Daera veterinary officials continue to oversee the situation on site. I urge all poultry keepers to remain vigilant, maintain good biosecurity and report any concerns about the health of their birds to Daera without delay."
The department confirmed that further updates would be issued once laboratory results become available. Should the disease be confirmed, the appropriate disease control measures would be put in place immediately.
"Further communications will be issued to keep the industry, wider stakeholders and the public informed," a department spokesman said.
