Northern Ireland (NI) will bring in a bird flu prevention zone from midnight on 17 November, the Government has confirmed.
The decision comes following a number of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 cases in wild birds across Britain in recent weeks.
Five different locations have reported cases of the H5N1 strain being found in captive birds and poultry.
All bird keepers, including pet and commercial flock owners, in Northern Ireland will have to follow strict biosecurity measures with the introduction of the prevention zone.
Cases in wild birds have also been reported in four locations in the Republic of Ireland, which Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots commented: “The recent positive findings of H5N1 in wild birds in the Republic of Ireland suggest that the disease may already be present here in Northern Ireland.
“I have taken the decision to declare an avian influenza prevention zone from midnight 17 November based on sound expert advice and in consultation with industry.”
Mr Poots said it was a necessary precautionary step that requires all bird keepers to take appropriate action to review and enhance the measures to protect their birds.
NI chief veterinary officer, Dr Robert Huey, added the prevention zone is necessary to prevent any contact that wild birds might otherwise have with poultry or other captive birds.
LSL News.