Catherine Conlon: Bird flu is spreading from pole to pole — here’s why it matters 

East Cork poultry farmers are facing a worrying period with Fota Wildlife Park confirming an outbreak of bird flu

Fota Wildlife Park is facing a  major financial blow after confirming it will remain closed for 'a number of weeks' due to an outbreak of bird flu, with the cost potentially passing €1m Picture: Dan Linehan

Fota Wildlife Park is facing a major financial blow after confirming it will remain closed for “a number of weeks” due to an outbreak of bird flu, with the cost potentially passing €1m.

Up to 4,000 visitors were expected over the bank holiday weekend alone, with 14,000 predicted for the mid-term break.