Urgent call for stricter biosecurity after suspected avian influenza case in NI
A suspected case of notifiable avian influenza has prompted swift action from authorities in Northern Ireland. The incident, reported near Omagh in County Tyrone, led the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to implement disease control measures, including the humane culling of all birds on the affected site and the establishment of Temporary Control Zones (3 km and 10 km) to prevent potential spread. The news comes as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) across wild birds, domestic flocks and farms throughout Ireland, the UK and parts of mainland Europe.
Why tighter biosecurity matters right now
Biosecurity is widely recognised as the most effective line of defence against avian flu. Even a single lapse can create an entry point for the virus, with potentially devastating consequences for both commercial operations and backyard flocks. Nigel Sweetnam, Chair of the IFA Poultry Committee, emphasised the real and immediate risk: “The threat is real, not just to flocks, but to our livelihoods and to the mental wellbeing of farm families.”
Sweetnam and DAERA officials stressed that the risk is not limited to the on-farm environment. As the situation develops, authorities are urging producers to reassess every stage of movement and contact, from farm entrances to equipment sharing with neighboring sites. The message is clear: robust biosecurity must be practiced consistently, not only in response to an incident but as a routine precaution.
What actions were taken in response?
On confirmation of the suspected case, disease control measures were immediately put in place. The affected premises underwent humane culling of all birds on site, and two Temporary Control Zones were established to monitor and contain potential spread. Although the control zones do not extend into the Republic of Ireland, the incident underscores the cross-border nature of avian influenza risk and the need for vigilance across the region.
Authorities have also reminded the public to avoid touching sick or dead wild birds and to report any sightings through the AvianCheck App or the Department of Agriculture’s website. Direct contact with bird carcasses, feathers or droppings should be avoided, and basic hygiene practices should be observed by anyone handling poultry or visiting farms.
Guidance for poultry producers: tightening on-farm protections
Producers – whether commercial flocks or backyard keepers – are urged to review and enhance biosecurity measures across all practices on the farm. Key steps include:
- Verifying the controlled entry of all visitors and workers; maintaining a log of who enters and leaves the premises.
- Sanitising vehicles, equipment and clothing before and after farm visits, and dedicating tools to specific sites where possible.
- Restricting contact between different flocks and ensuring poultry houses are secure against pests and unauthorized access.
- Implementing strict movement controls for birds, feed, bedding and manure, including formal isolation protocols for new stock or returning animals.
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene for handlers and a routine of cleaning and disinfection for housing units and equipment.
To support farmers, DAERA has made a Biosecurity Webinar available. The session provides practical guidance on reducing disease risks and protecting livelihoods, with tips on risk assessment, incident response and best practices for day-to-day farm management.
Public health and economic considerations
While the immediate concern is animal health and farm viability, the broader implications extend to mental health and community resilience. The fear of losing livestock and the financial strain of culling can weigh heavily on farming families. That is why the emphasis on proactive, practical biosecurity steps is so critical: prevention is the first line of defence against disease, and it helps safeguard both food supply and rural livelihoods.
What to do next
Farmers, both large and small, should remain vigilant and take immediate action to review and strengthen their biosecurity protocols. If you notice unusual symptoms in birds or unusual mortality, report it promptly through the DAERA channels or the AvianCheck app. Regularly revisit your on-farm protection measures and participate in the biosecurity webinar to stay up to date with best practices.
In summary
The NI case serves as a timely reminder that avian influenza remains a persistent threat. As authorities tighten control measures, the most effective response for producers is intensified biosecurity, careful movement management, and active engagement with official guidance. By working together, farmers and regulators can reduce the risk of spread and protect both animals and people.
