A case of H5N1 bird flu has been detected in Cyprus in a goose found at the lake in Athalassa National Forest Park in Nicosia, according to the Veterinary Services.
The public has been advised to avoid contact with wild birds, particularly those around the park’s lake, while further testing is carried out on the strain detected.
Public advised to avoid wild birds
The Veterinary Services said avian influenza is a contagious viral disease affecting birds and is caused by type A influenza viruses.
Transmission can occur through direct contact with infected birds or through contaminated objects and surfaces.
Visitors to Athalassa park are therefore being advised not to approach or feed the birds and to avoid close contact with them.
Further laboratory tests under way
Laboratory examinations are continuing in cooperation with the Community Reference Laboratory to determine the pathogenicity of the strain detected.
The European Commission and the World Organisation for Animal Health have already been informed of the case.
Poultry owners urged to take precautions
Owners of poultry farms are being advised to take all necessary measures to prevent wild or migratory birds from coming into contact with farmed poultry.
People keeping poultry at home are also required to keep their birds in enclosed and covered areas, particularly in locations close to wetlands.
Poultry must not be kept outdoors, while food and water should not be provided in outside areas. Water from surface reservoirs accessible to wild birds must also not be used.
The Veterinary Services are urging poultry owners to immediately report any increase in illness or deaths among their birds to the relevant authorities so that the possible presence of the disease can be investigated.
