Bird flu is suspected at poultry farm in Northern Ireland as restrictions imposed

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The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) said veterinary officials went to the premises on Sunday, where they imposed restrictions and took official samples for testing

A suspected case of bird flu is currently being investigated at a commercial poultry site in Northern Ireland, according to the agriculture department.

Controls have been placed on the flock following substantial mortality levels and clinical symptoms consistent with avian influenza being detected. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) confirmed veterinary officers attended the site in County Tyrone on Sunday, and they implemented the restrictions and collected official samples for analysis.

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."

He 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."

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…

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