Temporary Control Zone introduced in NI after Avian Influenza confirmation in Co Monaghan

Date published: 01 December 2021

A third outbreak of Avian Influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a commercial poultry premises in Co Monaghan.

DARD News

As a result, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has introduced a 3km and 10km Disease Control Zone to mitigate the risk of spreading the disease.

Northern Ireland Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Robert Huey said: “Following this third confirmation in Co Monaghan, officials in DAERA will continue to work very closely with their counterparts in DAFM. 

“The location of this infected premises lies close to the border between Monaghan and Armagh.  As a consequence, DAERA must take appropriate disease control measures to mitigate for onward disease spread.  I have therefore declared a Temporary Control Zone (TCZ-B) in that part of NI which lies within 10km of the infected premises.

“The declaration of the TCZ-B will involve premises within this zone having to adhere to strict biosecurity protocols, recording movements on/off holdings and a requirement to seek licensing for any movement of poultry or poultry related products into or out of the zone.

“You should contact the movement licensing centre (email applications.mlc@adaera-ni.gov.uk) for a specific licence application form, at least 48 hours in advance of any planned move.

“It is vitally important that all bird keepers adhere to strict biosecurity measures of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) in place throughout Northern Ireland, and the requirements of the housing order which is also in force.  Bird keepers are now legally required to keep birds indoors or otherwise separate from wild birds. Excellent biosecurity remains the most effective defence for reducing transmission of avian influenza to poultry or captive birds.  Please make use of the biosecurity checklist that has been developed by the Department to help review your biosecurity and give you the assurance that your birds are protected. 

Biosecurity Checklist including housing.pdf (daera-ni.gov.uk)

DAERA reminds you that it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers to register your birds (unless they are kept within your own home). This enables us to contact you with important disease information giving you the best opportunity to protect your birds.  You can register online at Bird registration form | Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (daera-ni.gov.uk)

DAERA also encourages sign up to the text alert service simply by texting 'BIRDS OPT IN' to 07860 098672. This will allow you to receive immediate notification of any important disease information, allowing you to protect your flocks at the earliest opportunity. Text 'BIRDS OPT OUT' to 07860 098672, to STOP receiving these text messages.

Notes to editors: 

  1. Avian Influenza is a notifiable disease. Anyone who suspects an animal may be affected by a notifiable disease must, by law, report it to their local DAERA Direct Office.
  2. The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that avian influenza is primarily a disease of birds and the risk to the general public’s health is very low. The Food Standards Agency has also advised, in avian influenza incursions of this type, that there is a very low risk to public health from the consumption of properly cooked poultry meat or eggs provided appropriate hygiene measures are followed.
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