Suspected Avian Influenza Case Near Omagh Triggers Immediate Controls
A suspected case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been identified at a commercial poultry premises in County Tyrone, just outside Omagh. The finding prompted the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) to implement disease control measures as a precaution while tests confirm the strain and its pathogenicity.
What the Authorities are Doing
Daera said the initial signs and preliminary results from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) led Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Brian Dooher to introduce control measures. These actions are described by officials as essential to limit any potential spread of the disease.
As part of the precautionary response, the site will see the humane culling of all poultry on the premises and a temporary control zone (TCZ) established to prevent movement of birds and potentially contaminated materials. If HPAI is formally confirmed, the TCZ will be replaced by a three-kilometre protection zone (PZ) and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone to increase monitoring and biosecurity oversight across a wider area.
Statements from Officials
Northern Ireland’s Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, confirmed the suspect case and described the measures as prudent given the risks associated with avian influenza. He stressed the need for vigilance among all poultry keepers, from backyard hobbyists to commercial operations, and urged strict adherence to biosecurity protocols.
CVO Brian Dooher echoed the call for ongoing vigilance, noting that disease control measures are critical to limit potential spread and protect other flocks in the region. He also encouraged bird owners to maintain high biosecurity standards and to report any suspect cases to Daera promptly.
Testing and Next Steps
Samples from the infected premises have been sent to the national reference laboratory to confirm the strain and its level of pathogenicity. The results will determine whether the TCZ evolves into the PZ and surveillance zones currently planned by authorities.
Impact on Local Farms and the Community
Past outbreaks in Northern Ireland have led to thousands of birds being culled and extensive sanitation actions at multiple premises. Officials have now reiterated that the current measures are designed to prevent a recurrence and safeguard the broader poultry industry, including consumer-facing supply chains. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing biosecurity, even for individuals with only a few birds, to minimize the risk of disease introduction and spread.
Public Reporting and Biosecurity Reminders
Members of the public are urged to report dead waterfowl or five or more dead wild birds of other species in the same location via the Daera dead wild bird online reporting tool. Quick reporting helps authorities identify potential hotspots and respond effectively.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation proceeds, farmers and hobbyists should stay informed through Daera updates and ensure their operations comply with any newly issued biosecurity directives. While the exact timeline for lifting restrictions depends on confirmatory testing, the focus remains on preventing spread and protecting healthy flocks across Northern Ireland.
