Avian flu found in sea birds washing up on west coast of Ireland

A number of dead birds have been washing up on Irish shores in recent weeks. Photograph: Getty

Groups of dead birds, some carrying avian flu, were found on shorelines in the West of Ireland. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) reported the discovery after surveillance in Kerry, Clare, and Galway. Gulls and Guillemot tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) by the Department of Agriculture. The disease affects bird respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems and has been detected in 25 cases in the last six months. The public is advised not to touch sick or dead wild birds and to keep pets away. The HSE stated that humans are unlikely to catch avian flu from birds or animals, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission at present. However, mutation of the virus could change this in the future. The H5N1 strain of HPAI is considered the most serious for birds and humans. Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon confirmed two H5N1 cases in wild sea birds in June. Individuals in contact with infected birds will be monitored for 10 days and may receive vaccination and antiviral medication if at risk. The Department of Agriculture encourages the public to report sick or dead wild birds using the AvianCheck app. Poultry keepers are asked to report any suspected avian influenza cases to veterinary offices or the National Disease Emergency Hotline. Europe has seen 896 HPAI outbreaks in poultry flocks and birds since the start of the year.