Bird flu case found in Aughnacloy

A temporary control zone has been put in place at a Aughnacloy farm as a case of bird flu was reported in a commercial flock.

Twenty-seven thousand ducks are being culled due to the outbreak.

Other cases have been discovered in Co Monaghan and in wild birds across the North.

If the case is confirmed, the temporary control zone will be replaced by a 1.9 miles protection zone and a 1 6.2 miles surveillance zone.

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Robert Huey has warned flock keepers to urgently take steps to protect their birds.

Dr Huey said, “Given this suspected incursion of notifiable AI, we cannot afford to be complacent. I am speaking to those who have half a dozen birds in the garden, right up to those commercial flock keepers with thousands of birds to act now.

“You must adhere to all biosecurity measures to protect your flock. I am extremely concerned about the serious risk of spread and this is a very worrying development.”