16,000 chickens to be culled amid suspected bird flu outbreak
A FURTHER 16,000 birds are to be culled in Tyrone following another suspected case of Avian Flu (AI).
The outbreak has been detected at a commercial poultry unit in Pomeroy, and swift action is being taken to control the spread of the disease.
It comes after around 64,000 birds were culled at a commercial premises near Dungannon a week ago.
This was the first instance of the disease in a commercial setting since December 2021.
Speaking on the most recent outbreak, a spokesman from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said: "(We) are investigating a further suspected case of notifiable Avian Influenza in a commercial poultry premises near Pomeroy, Co Tyrone.
"Preliminary test results indicate the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
"In light of the initial positive findings, Temporary Control Zones (TCZs) have been established. All poultry at the site will be humanely culled."
AI control measures are currently in place across Northern Ireland, which includes housing of all commercial and backyard flocks.
As a precaution, organisers of the Balmoral Show have cancelled all poultry classes at the event in May.
Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, said: "'A further suspect case of notifiable Avian Influenza was reported on Saturday, February 22 at a commercial poultry premises with nearly 16,000 birds.
"Preliminary results suggesting HPAI. This suspected incursion following the recently confirmed case in Dungannon, Co Tyrone, reinforces that we cannot afford to be complacent.
"It is imperative that all bird owners adhere to stringent biosecurity measures to protect their flock and report any suspicious cases immediately.'
Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, urged poultry keepers to maintain high biosecurity to contain the spread of the disease.
'The current disease control measures have been introduced to limit any potential spread of the disease," Mr. Dooher said.
"I urge all bird keepers, whether commercial or backyard, to maintain high biosecurity standards and fully comply with all requirements that have implemented to control this devastating disease.'
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