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Northern Ireland bird keepers urged to prepare for avian flu
“Make improvements where possible to reduce the risk of transmission of disease to your flocks” – Brian Dooher.
Chief vet highlights importance of good biosecurity.

Bird keepers in Northern Ireland have been urged to prepare for the increased threat of avian influenza this winter.

The appeal, made by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), comes after highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N5 was detected in commercial poultry at a premises in England.

The case, confirmed on 5 November by the UK chief veterinary officer, was the first case of avian influenza found in Great Britain since February.

According to the most recent Veterinary Risk Assessment for Northern Ireland, while the risk level of avian influenza for poultry flocks with suboptimal biosecurity is moderate, the risk level where biosecurity standards are high is low.

In response, DAERA is urging all bird keepers to follow high standards of biosecurity.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Given the positive wild bird findings at various locations across Great Britain over recent weeks, the start of winter migration, and now the first confirmed case of HPAI H5N5 in poultry in England this season, consistently high standards of biosecurity are essential.

“I encourage all owners of poultry, game or pet birds, whether you keep one bird or hundreds, to act now and carefully consider your biosecurity protection. Make improvements where possible to reduce the risk of transmission of disease to your flocks.

“If avian flu were to enter any flock, including backyard or hobby flocks, it would have a devastating effect on the poultry industry and would significantly impact international trade.”

Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland. Anyone who suspects a case must report it to their local Divisional Veterinary Office.

Image © Shutterstock

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Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

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