Suspected avian influenza case near Omagh prompts rapid response
A suspected case of notifiable highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as bird flu, has been identified at a commercial poultry premises near Omagh in County Tyrone. The Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) confirmed that disease control measures are in place as authorities assess the situation. The case underscores the ongoing vigilance required to protect both commercial flocks and backyard birds from the evolving threat of avian influenza.
What happened and the immediate response
According to Daera, investigators identified clinical signs consistent with avian influenza, and samples were sent to the national reference laboratory to determine the strain and pathogenicity. Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Brian Dooher said the measures are designed to limit any potential spread of disease while confirmation tests are completed. In parallel, the affected site is subject to temporary disease control measures to safeguard surrounding flocks and the broader poultry sector.
Temporary control zones and culling
As a precautionary step, local authorities have introduced temporary control zones to mitigate the risk of spread. The department indicated that, pending official confirmation, culling of all poultry on the site is being considered as part of a humane and decisive response. If confirmed as HPAI, these zones will transition to a 3-kilometre protection zone (PZ) and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone to intensify monitoring and biosecurity efforts.
DAERA’s minister emphasized the seriousness of the incident and the need for strict adherence to biosecurity measures across all levels of bird ownership. The aim is to prevent onward transmission to other flocks and wild birds in the area.
Public and industry guidance
Daera urged all poultry keepers, from small backyard flocks to large commercial operations, to maintain high biosecurity standards. Owners should report any suspected cases of avian flu immediately and avoid activities that could spread the virus, such as visiting poultry premises with outdoor access or sharing tools and equipment between sites. The department also noted that samples from the infected premises are undergoing laboratory analysis to confirm the exact strain and its pathogenicity.
Reporting and surveillance
In addition to on-farm vigilance, members of the public are urged to report dead waterfowl—swans, geese or ducks—or five or more dead wild birds of other species in the same location. Daera provides an online reporting tool for dead wild birds to streamline investigations and prevention measures.
Past lessons and ongoing risks
Earlier this year, several premises in Northern Ireland experienced avian influenza outbreaks that led to widespread culling and sanitation operations in Magherafelt (Co Derry) and Cookstown, Pomeroy and Stewartstown (Co Tyrone). The introduction of an avian influenza prevention zone (AIPZ) at that time required mandatory biosecurity controls on poultry flocks. Those measures were lifted later in May, but the current suspected case illustrates why biosecurity remains a persistent priority for the sector.
What this means for the sector and for households
The incident near Omagh serves as a reminder that avian influenza is not confined to distant regions. Vigilant surveillance, rapid reporting, and stringent biosecurity are essential to protecting both commercial operations and hobbyist flocks. If confirmed, authorities will continue to monitor movements, enforce the relevant zones, and adjust measures to prevent further spread while farmers and homeowners implement enhanced hygiene practices at their sites.
Daera and the NI government will provide updates as more information becomes available, and industry stakeholders are advised to stay informed through official channels about any changes to zones or required actions.
