The HSE has warned the public to avoid handling sick or dead wild birds due to the risk of bird flu. This follows two recent cases of the H5N1 strain in Ireland.
The HSE has this week issued a stark warning, urging people not to touch or handle sick or dead wild birds due to the risk of avian flu, more commonly known as bird flu.
The HSE said: "After a period of low HPAI activity in Ireland, two separate cases of the H5N1 strain of HPAI have recently been identified in buzzards; one in the west of the country in early December and one in the east of the country in late December. These are the first wild bird detections in Ireland since September 2023 and are not unexpected since HPAI activity has been increasing across Europe, including several outbreaks on poultry farms in the UK in 2024.
While human transmission of bird flu is currently rare, experts have warned that the virus could mutate and make human-to-human spread possible, sparking pandemic fears. Both the HSE and DAFM are advising the public to not to touch or handle any sick or dead wild birds, and to report any sick or dead wild birds via the Avian Check app.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Unhealthy food should be taxed to bring down obesity ratesIreland should tax all unhealthy food in order to tackle obesity, according to a HSE lead.
Read more »
Flu Cases Surge in Ireland; HSE Warns of Potential Hospital CrisisThe number of influenza cases in Ireland has more than doubled in recent weeks, prompting a warning from the HSE that there could be up to 900 flu cases in hospitals by the end of the year. Health officials urge vaccination and emphasize the importance of preventative measures like handwashing and staying home when sick.
Read more »
Deadly Bacteria Forces Urgent Recall of Festive Cheeses in IrelandSeveral cheeses produced by Wicklow Farmhouse have been urgently recalled in Ireland due to the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness. The recall affects cheeses sold in major supermarkets, and consumers are advised to return affected products for a full refund.
Read more »
Ireland takes eight Palestinian children with urgent health needs for treatmentMinister for Health Stephen Donnelly confirmed the first group of Palestinian children arrived in Dublin on Thursday evening, along with eight carers and 11 siblings
Read more »
Tragic Deaths Highlight Urgent Need to Address Femicide in IrelandThis year alone, Ireland has witnessed the deaths of several women due to violent circumstances. These incidents underscore the urgent need to raise awareness about femicide and implement effective measures to prevent future tragedies.
Read more »
Urgent Search Appeal Launched for Missing 65-Year-Old Woman in IrelandGardaí in Ireland are appealing to the public for information to help locate 65-year-old Francis Malone, who has been missing from Rockchapel, County Cork since December 20th. Malone is described as being approximately five foot six inches in height with a medium build, blonde hair and green eyes. Anyone with information is asked to contact authorities.
Read more »