Bird flu case confirmed in Galway

The Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of bird flu detected in a wild duck in Galway – the second case recorded in Ireland in the past two-and-a-half weeks.

The H5N8 strain of avian influenza was confirmed by the Dept tonight in a wigeon, but the exact location in Galway has not yet been disclosed.

It is the same highly contagious strain that was detected in Wexford on December 28, as well as in the UK and mainland Europe.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has confirmed that the risk to humans is considered to be very low.

“The Department reiterates once again the requirement to confine poultry and other birds, and to apply strict bio-security measures to prevent the introduction of avian influenza.

“Poultry flock owners should remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their flocks, and report any disease suspicion to their nearest Department Veterinary Office.