Nearly 16,000 birds to be culled after avian flu outbreak in Co Tyrone

Northern Ireland is facing a significant outbreak of avian influenza, with nearly 16,000 birds set to be culled at a poultry operation in Co Tyrone following preliminary tests indicating the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This comes shortly after over 64,000 birds were culled at a farm near Dungannon due to a previous suspected case. Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir emphasized the urgency for bird owners to adhere to strict biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the disease. Temporary Control Zones have been established around the affected premises, restricting the movement of poultry and related products. The Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, reiterated the importance of compliance with disease control measures, highlighting the potential economic impact on Northern Ireland's poultry industry, valued at £0.6 billion. There are also concerns about the upcoming Balmoral Show, which has canceled poultry competitions due to the ongoing housing order for birds.