In the last two weeks, five outbreaks of Bird flu have been confirmed in wild birds in Ireland, including an eagle, falcons, swans and geese. These cases have been detected in Roscommon, Offaly, Donegal, Galway and Kerry.
While the risk to human health is low, backyard and free-range flocks can be vulnerable as they spend time outdoors. Flock holders are advised to protect their poultry from avian influenza by preventing their birds from coming into contact with potentially infected wild birds, their faeces and other secretions.
Keepers who are concerned about the health or welfare of their flock should seek veterinary advice immediately
The public is urged to be vigilant and not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds but to report sick or dead wild birds to the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine at the details below:
Avian Influenza Hotline: 076 1064403
Out of hours: 1850 200456
Aviancheck app to report sick/dead wild birds: https://aviancheck.apps.rhos.agriculture.gov.ie/
Learn more on how to protect your flock: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7e230-poultry/#biosecurity
