Flooding ‘increases risk of avian influenza incursion’

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) advised poultry farmers that flooding can increase the risk of infections by avian influenza, or bird flu.

In social media posts, DAERA recommended poultry farmers, with the current rain warning in place, to check their birds’ housing for any damage.

“Any flooding or damage to hen houses increases risk of an avian influenza incursion,” DAERA said in a Facebook post.

The department advised farmers to check for any holes or blocked drains, and to “clean and disinfect any areas exposed to flooding”.

Bird flu

Avian influenza (AI), commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory, digestive and/or nervous system of many species of birds. It may also pose a threat to people and other animals in certain circumstances.

According to DAERA’s most recent situation report (January 4), the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) for the whole of Northern Ireland remains in place.

This means it is a legal requirement for all poultry and other captive birds to be housed or otherwise kept separate from wild birds.

As part of the AIPZ, bird keepers must follow strict biosecurity measures in order to mitigate against disease incursion.

A ban on the gatherings of galliforme (including pheasants, partridge, quail, chickens, turkey, guinea fowl), anseriforme (including ducks, geese, swans), and poultry has also been implemented.

Avian influenza is a notifiable disease. Anyone who suspects an animal may be affected by a notifiable disease must, by law, report it to the DAERA Helpline.

Housing order

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir announced the decision to re-introduce a housing order for Northern Ireland in November 5, 2025.

He said: “I have taken the decision to introduce housing measures for all poultry and captive birds and a ban on certain bird gatherings and I welcome the announcement that a similar order is coming into effect in Ireland.

“Officials will continue to remain in close contact with counterparts in ROI.”

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