The investigation into the suspected presence of a notifiable avian disease in a poultry flock in Co Fermanagh highlights once again to poultry keepers the measures they should take to reduce the risk of introducing disease into their flock, the Department of Agriculture has said.

This is currently the high-risk period for avian influenza (AI) and the Department is urging all poultry owners, including backyard flock owners, to be vigilant and to implement strict biosecurity on their premises, particularly in relation to minimising contact with wild birds.

Flock-owners should also regularly monitor their birds for signs of disease

It warns that it is critically important to ensure that wild birds do not have access to feeding areas and feed stores.

Flock-owners should also regularly monitor their birds for signs of disease. If they suspect any signs of the disease in their flocks, they must report it immediately to the Department of Agriculture.

Anyone who keeps poultry in Ireland is reminded that, even if they only have one or two birds, they must register their premises with the Department of Agriculture.

Fermanagh

On Tuesday, the Department of Agriuculture in Northern Ireland said it was investigating a suspected case of avian disease in a brolier breeder flock in the county.

Restrictions have been served on the farm and samples have been taken from birds and transported to AFBI.

Testing for notifiable bird diseases including avian influenza and Newcastle disease is ongoing.

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