Bird Flu Prevention Zone to End in Northern Ireland
The bird flu prevention zone and the ban on poultry gatherings in Northern Ireland will be lifted on Friday at 00:01 BST.
A series of compulsory biosecurity measures for poultry flocks were introduced on 1 November 2025 to control the spread of avian influenza.
The last confirmed case of bird flu in poultry or captive birds in Northern Ireland was recorded in March 2026.
The removal of these restrictions follows the lifting of the avian housing order in Northern Ireland last week.
Agriculture and Environment Minister Andrew Muir said thanks to the "determined efforts from the poultry sector in Northern Ireland to protect their flocks and minimise the impact of disease" the prevention zone could be lifted along with a reduction in "all mandatory restrictions placed on bird keepers".
"I am sure this will be welcome news for the sector which contributes greatly to our economy and wider society," he added.
"Although all mandatory restrictions have now been lifted, the biosecurity requirements set out for the AIPZ (Avian Influenza Prevention Zone) should still be considered good practice.
"We are urging all bird keepers, whether they have a few birds or thousands, to adhere to the guidance as much as is practically possible."
Muir also encouraged anyone who keeps poultry or other birds to remain vigilant for any signs of disease and to seek immediate advice from their veterinarian if concerns arise.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs stated that poultry and bird gatherings will be permitted from Friday, provided organisers comply with the provisions of the updated general licence for bird gatherings.
What is Bird Flu?
Bird flu is a disease caused by a virus that infects birds and occasionally other animals such as foxes, seals, and otters.
The virus spreads through contaminated feed and water, as well as through birds' droppings and saliva.
The predominant strain circulating among wild birds worldwide is a type known as H5N1.
This strain first emerged in China in the late 1990s.
Bird migration has contributed to outbreaks in both domestic and wild bird populations globally.
While the virus has very rarely infected humans, experts indicate that the current risk to human health remains low.
