Fota Wildlife Park to close after suspected bird flu outbreak

"A vet at the park is believed to have reported the suspected cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in three dead geese and a fourth sick goose that were part of a flock of 20 at the park, RTÉ News reported. Samples from the animals in question are being are being processed at the State Laboratory in Backweston, Co Kildare. The results of tests taken today of the animals are expected tomorrow, RTÉ said."

"A veterinary investigation is also ongoing on site at Fota. A risk assessment is likely to be carried out by investigators and either a protection zone of 3km or an exclusion zone of 10km could be put around the site as a precaution, should the tests be positive. Late last month, Cork City Council advised those visiting The Lough amenity in Cork city to stay away from birds at the site, which also operates as a wildfowl sanctuary."

Fota Wildlife Park closed to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 14 and 15 after suspected cases of avian influenza were reported to the Department of Agriculture. Three dead geese and a fourth sick goose from a flock of 20 are suspected to have HPAI, and a park veterinarian reported the cases. Samples are being processed at the State Laboratory in Backweston, Co Kildare, with results expected tomorrow. A veterinary investigation is underway on site and a risk assessment could establish a 3km protection zone or a 10km exclusion zone if tests are positive. The public is advised to avoid contact with sick or dead birds.

Read at Irish Independent