URGENT: Second Bird Flu Outbreak Confirmed in Co Meath Turkey Flock

BREAKING: A second bird flu outbreak has just been confirmed in a commercial turkey flock in Co Meath, escalating concerns after a similar outbreak was reported just yesterday in Co Carlow. As the situation develops, immediate measures are being implemented to protect other poultry flocks across the region.

Authorities have established restriction zones around both sites, consisting of a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone. The Department of Agriculture has mandated a compulsory housing order for all poultry and captive birds effective from Monday, November 10. This regulation also prohibits any gatherings of birds from different locations, including shows and sales, to minimize the risk of further infections.

Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the second outbreak “underlines the ongoing presence of avian influenza in wild birds across the country.” This year alone, over 40 wild birds have tested positive for the virus in Ireland, including 12 at Fota Wildlife Park, prompting a temporary closure of the park to ensure public safety.

“Working together and following strict biosecurity procedures is the strongest defense to reduce the risk and safeguard our poultry sector,” Minister Heydon added.

In a related matter, Northern Ireland is set to implement similar safety measures this Thursday. Reports indicate a flock of approximately 15,000 turkeys is facing culling in Co Fermanagh following a suspected bird flu case, while 12,000 chickens are currently being culled at a commercial poultry facility near Pomeroy, Co Tyrone.

While the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSE-HPSC) and the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) assure that the risk to public health remains very low, the public is still urged not to handle sick or dead wild birds. Instead, they should report such incidents using the Department’s avian check app.

This developing crisis highlights the critical need for vigilance among poultry keepers and the general public. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.