Ireland now officially free from bird flu
Effective since January 1, 2026, Ireland is officially been awarded HPAI-free status.
It was recently announced Ireland has officially been awarded Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus (HPAI)-free status.
The World Organisation for Animal Health has published Ireland’s self-declaration of freedom from HPAI in poultry on its website, with an effective date of January 1, 2026.
Agriculture minister Martin Heydon commended all involved in regaining disease freedom: “This publication means that Ireland has regained its status regarding ‘Freedom from HPAI’. It is a real credit to our poultry industry and my department, and I want to acknowledge the effort involved in reaching this point.
Unfortunately, we’re still in the high-risk period, and I want to remind all stakeholders to remain vigilant.” Mr Heydon also highlighted the importance of compliance with measures regarding the ongoing housing order and biosecurity measures, which still remain in place.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has not been detected in Ireland in wild birds or domestic poultry in 2026 (to date). Cases continue to be detected across Europe and Great Britain, so continued vigilance is advised.
