Avian flu not found in slaughtered pheasants

Immediate concerns over an avian influenza outbreak have now eased, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Immediate concerns over an avian influenza outbreak have now eased, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Department tests have confirmed avian influenza was not present in pheasants slaughtered at Barryroe, Co Cork.

The department said the latest results proved the virus had not spread and a temporary restriction zone in the Barryroe area has been lifted.

Meanwhile, a 21-day temporary restriction zone of a kilometre at Clonakilty will remain in place after birds linked to the Barryroe batch were confirmed to be carrying the low pathogenic avian influenza virus. This virus is less virulent than the deadly H5N1 virus.

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While monitoring would continue until the current restrictions in Clonakilty have been lifted, the immediate cause for concern in relation to avian influenza had now eased, the department said.