The Department of Agriculture has confirmed that a Swan found at Ballinturley, near Four Mile House, has tested positive for the H5N8 strain of Bird Flu.
This is the fifth case of Bird Flu to have been confirmed in Ireland. Two of the other cases also involved Swans; one on the Longford-Leitrim border and one in Tipperary. The other two cases occurred in a species of duck known as wigeons.
In December, the Department of Agriculture activated regulations requiring all poultry and captive birds to be kept within a secure building amid concerns over the spread of the disease. They advised Poultry flock owners to remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their flocks, maintain strict biosecurity measures and report any disease suspicion to their nearest Department Veterinary Office.
An early warning system is in place with Birdwatch Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the National Association of Regional Game Councils with regard to surveillance for signs of disease in wild birds.
The public is advised not to handle dead or sick birds.