Urgent call for tighter biosecurity across all poultry farms
The northern region is urged to double down on biosecurity following a confirmed report of a suspected case of notifiable avian influenza near Omagh, Co. Tyrone. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) confirmed the development on Sunday, triggering a swift response aimed at containing any potential spread and protecting both commercial producers and backyard keepers.
In a precautionary measure, authorities have implemented disease control actions including humane culling of all birds on the affected site and the establishment of Temporary Control Zones of 3 km and 10 km. These zones are designed to limit movement and reduce the chance that the virus moves beyond the premises, reflecting the seriousness with which HPAI threats are treated across the region.
Nigel Sweetnam, chair of the IFA Poultry Committee, expressed solidarity with the farmers affected and underscored the broader implications for the sector. “It’s an incredibly tough blow, especially so early in the season. We must do everything possible to keep this disease away from our doors. The threat is real, not just to flocks, but to our livelihoods and to the mental wellbeing of farm families,” he said.
Sweetnam noted that while the control zones do not extend into the Republic of Ireland, the episode serves as a stark reminder of the enduring risk posed by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Wild and domestic birds across Ireland, the UK, and mainland Europe continue to carry the virus, making ongoing vigilance essential for all poultry producers.
“Biosecurity is our first and most effective line of defence. Every movement onto your farm, every visitor, and every piece of equipment must be managed with the utmost care,” he added. The message is clear: preventing introduction of avian influenza requires consistent practices and disciplined routines at every level of poultrykeeping.
Practical steps for strengthening on-farm defenses
For poultry farmers and backyard keepers alike, the current situation emphasizes concrete biosecurity measures that reduce the risk of disease entry and spread. Authorities recommend scrutinising and tightening several core areas:
- Visitor management: record and limit visits to essential personnel only; disinfect footwear and gear for anyone entering the poultry houses.
- Equipment controls: isolate and clean tools and equipment, and ensure dedicated equipment for each flock or area where possible.
- Cleanliness and hygiene: implement routine cleaning and disinfection of housing, water systems, and feed delivery points.
- Controlled movements: minimise the potential for cross-contamination during transport or handling of birds, eggs, or waste.
- Health monitoring: maintain daily vigilance for signs of disease, report concerns promptly to DAERA, and follow guidance for reporting notifiable diseases via AvianCheck or the department’s website.
Public guidance remains unchanged: do not touch sick or dead wild birds, avoid contact with bird carcasses, feathers, or droppings, and practice good personal hygiene when handling birds or cleaning out facilities. These precautions protect not only flocks but the people who rely on them for livelihoods.
Support for farmers: resources and ongoing vigilance
To help farmers assess and strengthen their on-farm protections, DAERA has made available a Biosecurity Webinar. The session offers practical guidance on reducing disease risks, safeguarding flocks, and supporting livelihoods impacted by avian influenza outbreaks. Participants can access the webinar resources and stay updated on evolving biosecurity recommendations as the situation develops.
As the sector awaits further updates, the focus remains on vigilant biosecurity, rapid reporting of suspected cases, and robust disease-control measures. The collective effort of authorities, industry bodies, and poultry keepers will be essential in preventing spread and maintaining the resilience of Northern Ireland’s poultry sector.
