Situation overview: suspected notifiable avian influenza near Omagh
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 prompted the immediate uptake of disease control measures by the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera). While confirmatory testing is ongoing, authorities have stated that culling and movement controls may be used to prevent any further spread of the disease.
What happens next: the role of disease control zones
In response to the suspected case, the Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) for Northern Ireland, Dr. Brian Dooher, announced the initiation of emergency measures. He emphasized that the aim is to limit potential transmission, safeguard other flocks, and maintain public confidence in the sector. The current steps include humane culling of all poultry at the affected site if the incident is confirmed as HPAI, as well as the introduction of temporary control zones (TCZ).
As per standard procedure, if HPAI is officially confirmed, the TCZ will be replaced with a 3-kilometre protection zone (PZ) and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone. These zones impose strict biosecurity and movement restrictions on poultry, equipment, personnel, and vehicles to reduce the risk of spread to neighboring farms and wild birds.
Statements from NI leadership on biosecurity and vigilance
Northern Ireland Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir underscored the seriousness of the situation. He described the suspect case as a reminder that complacency is not an option and stressed the need for rigorous biosecurity measures for everyone involved in poultry farming — from backyard hobbyists to large commercial operations.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dooher echoed this call, urging all bird owners to maintain high levels of biosecurity and to report any suspect cases promptly. He noted that samples from the infected premises have already been sent to the national reference laboratory to determine the exact strain and pathogenicity of the virus. The results will influence the next steps and the possible adjustment or removal of control zones.
Public and stakeholder actions
Public guidance remains clear: report unusual bird deaths, especially waterfowl such as swans, geese, or ducks, and five or more dead birds of other species at the same location, using Daera’s online reporting tool. Early reporting can accelerate epidemiological investigations and containment efforts. The department’s response reflects ongoing vigilance after earlier culls and sanitation actions in other parts of Northern Ireland earlier in the year, underscoring the persistent risk of avian influenza during migratory seasons.
What this means for flock owners
For current flock owners, the incident highlights the importance of maintaining robust biosecurity practices: secure fencing, controlled access to poultry houses, disinfection protocols for vehicles and equipment, and strict hygiene for personnel and visitors. Owners should also review contingency plans for potential culling scenarios and know how to communicate effectively with Daera if suspicious signs appear in their flocks.
Why continued vigilance matters
Despite vaccines not being routinely deployed in Northern Ireland for free-range or commercial birds, surveillance programs and rapid reporting mechanisms help contain outbreaks. The Omagh case serves as a reminder that avian influenza can spread quickly through poultry populations and, in some cases, via wild birds that share habitats with farmed flocks. Ongoing cooperation among farmers, veterinarians, and governmental agencies remains essential to protect animal health, preserve livelihoods, and minimize economic disruption.
