Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has confirmed that the H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic bird flu is circulating in populations of wild birds off the west and southwest coasts.

The confirmation follows reports over the past three weeks of groups of wild sea birds washing up along the coastline in counties Kerry, Clare and Galway.

“In two instances, a wild sea bird which washed up on a beach tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza virus, with one case in Kerry and one in Galway,” Minister Heydon said.

“I have a clear message for the public, especially for those who may encounter dead birds on beaches this summer: do not touch or pick up dead wild birds.”

Dog owners have been reminded to keep their pets on a leash in areas where there are sick or dead wild birds.

Biosecurity

Poultry farmers in counties Kerry, Clare and Galway have been advised to “implement stringent biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading to their flocks”.

The advice was issued to both commercial farmers and those with just a few backyard hens.

“Strict biosecurity remains the single-most important disease prevention measure. Report any suspicions of avian influenza to your local regional veterinary office without delay,” the Minister commented.

Minister Heydon thanked members of the public who reported sightings of wild dead birds to the Department via the Avian Check app, saying that they have helped protected public and animal health.

The Department has reiterated that the H5N1 strain of bird flu currently circulating is considered to pose only a low risk for the general public and low to medium risk for occupationally exposed people.