The first case of H5N8 bird flu in Northern Ireland has been identified in a wild swan.

The case was identified in County Londonderry near Lough Beg, after a member of the public contacted the environment department (DAERA) to report a dead swan.

The finding follows the extension of a Prevention Zone in Northern Ireland until 16 March 2017 which requires all keepers of poultry and other captive birds to keep their birds indoors, or take appropriate steps to prevent contact between kept and wild birds.

Northern Ireland’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Robert Huey said, “This finding is not unexpected and follows calls for bird keepers to be more vigilant for signs of the disease. It is possible that more cases will be confirmed.

“This finding serves to remind us all of the risk of infection. The Prevention Zone and temporary suspension on gatherings of poultry remain in place. It is also important that bird keepers in Northern Ireland remain vigilant and where necessary improve their biosecurity. Even when birds are housed there is still a risk of infection and biosecurity should not be compromised. Clothing and equipment should be disinfected, the movement of poultry should be reduced and contact between poultry and wild birds should be minimised.”

Mr Huey added, “Expert advice remains that consumers should not be concerned about eating eggs or poultry and the threat to public health from the virus is very low.

“Poultry and other bird keepers are reminded that anyone who has any poultry or any other captive birds must be registered with the Department.”