Bird Flu Reported Case Under Investigation on Tyrone Poultry Farm

The disease presents little risk to human health but can be catastrophic for poultry flocks. The commercial poultry sector is an important part of the Northern Ireland economy, so officials treat any suspected case very seriously.

What officials said

Agriculture and Environment Minister Andrew Muir said the disease had not yet been confirmed but the situation was being treated with "the utmost seriousness". He said the department had "robust contingency plans in place" to respond if Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is confirmed.

Muir also acknowledged the impact on the flock keeper and the uncertainty for the wider poultry sector.

He said officials are "actively considering the need for further disease control measures across Northern Ireland", guided by veterinary and epidemiological advice. A housing order, which requires birds to be kept indoors, has not been ruled out.

Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher said disease control arrangements had been activated and contingency planning was under way. Vets 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," Dooher said.

Wider British picture

England and Scotland introduced housing orders last week, citing the heightened risk at this time of year and a series of outbreaks across Great Britain. Wales has also brought in restrictions, though no cases have been confirmed there.

Any confirmation would trigger a cull on the Tyrone farm, with further measures for Northern Ireland to follow.