The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is urging poultry farmers in Northern Ireland to remain cautious and keep heightened biosecurity measures in place after a number of non-notifiable avian flu cases in the west of Northern Ireland.

“The UFU are aware of the suspect non-notifiable avian influenza cases that have been reported in the west of the country and we are monitoring the situation. It is a reminder that poultry and backyard keepers should be vigilant at all times,” UFU deputy president David Brown said.

“I urge producers to make themselves familiar with DAERA’s guidance on good biosecurity and there is a text alert service which they can sign up to. Through this system they will receive immediate notifications if there is a disease outbreak.

“If producers have any suspicion of disease in their flock, they should contact their vet or local divisional veterinary office immediately.”

To subscribe to the text alert service, text BIRDS to 67300.

The signs

Symptoms to watch for in your flock include:

  • Increased number of deaths.
  • A swollen head.
  • Discolouration of the neck and throat.
  • A loss of appetite.
  • Respiratory distress.
  • Diarrhoea and fewer eggs laid.
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