Urgent: Fifth Bird Flu Case Confirmed at Turkey Farm in Co Cavan

BREAKING: A fifth case of bird flu has been confirmed at a turkey farm in Co Cavan, Ireland, raising urgent health concerns as the festive season approaches. The Department of Agriculture announced the outbreak of the highly pathogenic avian influenza HPAI H5N1 on Monday, December 10, 2025, emphasizing the high risk of further outbreaks among poultry flocks across the country.

This alarming development follows previous outbreaks at turkey farms in Laois, Monaghan, Meath, and Carlow in recent weeks. With over one million turkeys produced annually in Ireland—primarily for December celebrations—the timing of this outbreak could significantly impact the festive market.

Health officials are particularly concerned as preliminary positive results for the virus have been reported in two flocks in Northern Ireland. Wild birds across the island are also believed to be circulating the virus, heightening the urgency of the situation.

Since November 10, all bird keepers and farmers have been mandated to keep their birds indoors, per the Avian Influenza (Precautionary Confinement of Birds and Restriction on Assembly of Live Birds) Regulations 2025. The department stressed that simply housing birds will not fully protect them; rigorous biosecurity measures must be implemented to prevent the disease’s spread.

“Biosecurity remains the top method in controlling and preventing avian influenza,” stated a department spokesperson. “Flock owners must take immediate action to secure their premises against vermin and wild birds, and limit access only to essential personnel.”

The department also reiterated that organizing events involving the assembly of live birds is strictly prohibited. This includes shows, fairs, markets, or sales, which could increase the risk of infection.

As the housing order remains in effect until further notice, the department is closely monitoring the situation. Decisions regarding the lifting of restrictions will be based on epidemiological data, including the number of wild bird cases and environmental factors like temperature and daylight hours.

With the holiday season just weeks away, the implications of this outbreak extend beyond agriculture; it poses potential threats to food supply chains and local economies reliant on turkey production. The emotional stakes are high for farmers and communities preparing for Christmas festivities.

Authorities are urging all bird owners to adhere to the highest levels of biosecurity, ensuring that their flocks are protected from this serious health threat. The situation is developing rapidly, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.

Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this critical public health issue.