Ireland Braces for Avian Flu Risk as Migratory Birds Arrive

Ireland's poultry and livestock sectors are preparing for the threat of avian flu in late autumn, when migratory birds can carry and spread the disease. The issue is examined in an opinion piece published by the farming news site Agriland UK, which asks how serious the disease risk to the island of Ireland really is.

Large numbers of birds from more northerly latitudes spend the winter in Ireland, while millions of others leave to overwinter in places such as Africa. The author notes that this natural annual rhythm cannot be stopped, but that avian flu, which the visiting birds can transmit, is a major challenge for the poultry sector.

Other disease threats

The island has so far been somewhat shielded from many animal health problems affecting the rest of Europe, because imports of livestock are controlled. The author says this is changing. Schmallenberg virus has been associated with an increase in newborn lamb and calf deformities across the island, and bluetongue is described as another unwelcome disease now present. Both are spread by midges and threaten the dairy, beef and sheep sectors. The piece also suggests that new exotic diseases could arrive from mainland Europe, so livestock farmers must stay vigilant.

Progress and future priorities

The author also highlights good news: Ireland has made substantial progress towards eradicating bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD), and all farmers are urged to help finish the job. This, the piece says, could set the stage for tackling other challenges, including Johne's disease.

Animal disease status is closely tied to a region's ability to export livestock products worldwide, a link expected to become even more relevant. The article also notes that antibiotics will soon no longer be permitted for treating many common animal ailments on farms, so disease prevention must become the top priority.