BIRD FLU UPDATE AND ADVICE
As Ireland has had several outbreaks in recent weeks, The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine requested we share the information below.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza HPAI (H5N1) or bird flu, is currently circulating in wild birds, especially in breeding seabirds around Ireland. There has been a marked increase in the number of reports of sick and dead wild birds to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) in recent days.
It is DAFM’s understanding that it is the responsibility of the Local Authority to collect and dispose of dead birds on publicly owned lands e.g. beaches. Local Authorities already have systems in place whereby Category 1 material can be appropriately disposed of. The organisation of occupational health provision is a matter for each individual organisation but should be conducted in collaboration with public health colleagues and occupational health providers.
As always, DAFM advice is that members of the public should not approach or handle sick or dead wild birds. In such cases, our immediate advice (as guided by public health colleagues) is to instruct them to wash their hands with soap and hot water. Should they have any concerns or develop any ‘flu-like’ symptoms they are to contact their GP making them aware of the fact that they may have been exposed to avian influenza.
Up to date information on avian influenza in Ireland can be found at: www.gov.ie/birdflu
Content Last Updated/Reviewed: 25/11/2025
