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A suspected outbreak of avian flu has led to the decision to cull approximately 20,000 chickens on a farm in County Tyrone. Samples taken from the farm are currently being tested at the National Reference Laboratory to confirm the strain of the flu. This incident marks the first suspected case of bird flu in a commercial premises since February, according to Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir. Muir emphasized the importance of not becoming complacent in light of this outbreak.
Chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher stressed the need for strict adherence to biosecurity protocols by all flock owners to prevent the potential spread of disease. Additionally, Daera veterinary officer Ignatius McKeown highlighted the increasing mortality rate at the site, with deaths rising from 3 to over 300 within a short period. Despite the infection being confined to one house out of three, all birds on the premises, estimated to be around 20,000, will be culled as a precautionary measure.
As the region enters a high-risk period for avian influenza with the migration of birds, Minister Muir urged poultry farmers to review and enhance their biosecurity measures to avoid further outbreaks. McKeown also expressed concern over the impact this outbreak will have on both the owner and the poultry industry, stressing the devastating consequences it could bring. The incident is a critical reminder of the ongoing threat posed by avian flu, which has continued to circulate in the wild bird population despite previous restrictions and outbreaks in early 2025
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