Suspected HPAI case near Omagh triggers swift disease controls
A suspected case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been identified at a commercial poultry premises near Omagh in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The incident, announced by the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera), has led to the rapid deployment of disease control measures as authorities assess the risk to other holdings and wild birds in the area.
Daera said relevant steps were initiated after clinical signs were observed and interim analyses were provided by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI). The department emphasized that the measures are precautionary but essential to prevent any potential spread of the virus.
What the authorities are doing now
In a statement, Daera noted that samples from the affected site have been sent to the national reference laboratory to confirm the strain and its pathogenicity. Pending official confirmation, the chief veterinary officer (CVO), Brian Dooher, underscored the importance of strict control measures to safeguard both commercial flocks and backyard birds.
As a precaution, the CVO has introduced disease controls and is coordinating with the site operator. Should HPAI be officially confirmed, the authorities have indicated a phased response that may include replacing temporary control zones (TCZ) with a formal protection zone (PZ) extending three kilometres, and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone to monitor bird movements and report any new cases quickly.
Impact on the premises and wider industry
The initial steps involve humane culling of all poultry on the affected site and the establishment of containment zones. This approach aims to curb potential spread and protect other flocks in the region, including commercial operations and smaller backyard holdings. The incident serves as a reminder of the persistent risk of avian influenza in poultry regions and the need for robust biosecurity practices across all bird-keeping scales.
Northern Ireland’s Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir stressed the seriousness of the development and urged all bird owners to maintain rigorous biosecurity. He noted that the precautionary measures are designed to prevent spread to other farms and wild birds, which can play a role in disease transmission.
Biosecurity and reporting: what owners should know
Officials repeatedly highlighted the critical role of biosecurity. Continuous, high-standard measures, including controlled access to poultry housing, sanitation protocols, and minimizing contact with wild birds, are key to reducing risk. The public is also advised to report any unusual wildlife findings, such as dead waterfowl or clusters of dead birds, through the Daera online reporting tool. Prompt reporting can aid rapid investigation and containment.
Daera’s public outreach emphasizes that disease control is not just about reacting to a confirmed case. It also involves proactive vigilance by both commercial operators and hobbyists who keep even a small number of birds. The minister and CVO framed the situation as a reminder not to be complacent about avian influenza and to uphold strict biosecurity measures year-round.
As investigations continue, the Daera and AFBI teams will monitor the situation, update the public, and adjust zones as needed. The outcome will depend on laboratory confirmation, the presence or absence of further cases, and adherence to biosecurity guidelines by owners and staff across Northern Ireland.
How officials engage with the community
Public reporting channels remain open for dead wild birds and suspected cases. The online reporting tool is designed to facilitate rapid communication between local communities and veterinary authorities, enabling swift risk assessment and action. While the current case is limited to a single site, the authorities are clear that vigilance and responsible flock management are the best defense against avian influenza outbreaks.
For farmers and bird owners in Northern Ireland, the message is consistent: maintain high biosecurity, remain alert to clinical signs in birds, and report concerns immediately to Daera. The ongoing response aims to protect both animal health and the livelihoods dependent on poultry in the region.
