Two geese have died in Fermanagh as a result of contracting avian flu and a further 27 birds have been culled as a result of the outbreak.

A Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) spokesperson confirmed the number of animals affected and said: “The outbreak has affected 29 captive birds in total – two geese that died, and 27 geese, ducks and hens that were humanely euthanised.”

The official case of avian influenza has been confirmed in County Fermanagh yesterday, Wednesday, February 9 after DAERA first raised suspicions of a suspected case last Friday, February 4.

A 10km surveillance zone has been placed in Co. Fermanagh encompassing much of Enniskillen and some surrounding areas, which is affecting a large number of flocks.

A DAERA spokesperson said: “There are 79 flocks registered in the Animal and Public Health Information System, of which four are commercial flocks.”

Northern Ireland Chief Veterinary Officer Robert Huey said: “Unfortunately we have confirmed another incursion of HPAI H5N1 in a small, mixed-species, backyard flock in Enniskillen.

“As a precautionary measure, on February 4, following initial laboratory results, I took the decision to introduce appropriate disease control measures, including the humane culling of the affected birds and the introduction of Temporary Control Zones (TCZs), to mitigate for onward disease spread.

“Following the confirmation of HPAI H5N1 from the National Reference Laboratory, these TCZs have now been revoked and a 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone established around the infected premises.

“Although this is extremely disappointing, it is not unexpected.

“It is a timely reminder that bird flu is still present in the environment and we must continue to be vigilant. We cannot afford to get complacent. This strain will use any gaps in biosecurity to gain access to a flock.”

Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots said: “I am calling on all bird keepers, particularly those with small backyard flocks, to review their biosecurity practices.

“Excellent biosecurity remains the most effective defence for reducing transmission of avian influenza to poultry or captive birds and it is vitally important that all bird keepers adhere to the strict enhanced biosecurity measures of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) which remains in place in Northern Ireland.

“As part of the measures of the AIPZ, bird keepers legally must keep their birds indoors or otherwise separate from wild birds.

“We cannot afford to be complacent, so I would urge everyone to take all measures necessary.”