Bird Flu Confirmed in East Cork, Ireland – Public Health Guidance

A case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, has been confirmed in a swan found in east Cork, Ireland. The confirmation, made by the Department of Agriculture on Saturday, March 14, 2026, follows the discovery of multiple dead swans at Loughaderry Lake near Castlemartyr. Public health officials are urging caution and providing guidance to minimize potential risks.

Recent Developments

The Department of Agriculture confirmed the HPAI case after testing a swan found dead earlier this week. An increased number of swan deaths have been reported in the area. RTÉ News reports that 11 swans were found dead at the site on Thursday [Source: RTÉ News]. Further reports from the Irish Examiner indicate that as many as 15 swans were found dead by Friday, March 13, 2026 [Source: Irish Examiner].

Initial reports on March 12, 2026, highlighted concerns about the gradual removal of carcasses, raising fears of potential biohazard spread [Source: Irish Examiner]. However, Cork County Council has stated that arrangements are in place for the safe and controlled removal of the carcasses by the Cork County Civil Defence and Department officials, scheduled for Saturday [Source: RTÉ News].

Public Health Risk

While HPAI is a serious concern for wild birds and poultry, the risk to human health is considered very low. According to the Department of Agriculture, bird flu mainly affects wild birds like ducks and geese, and domestic poultry such as chickens. Any bird that contracts the virus is likely to turn into severely ill and die [Source: RTÉ News]. Provided poultry meat and eggs are properly cooked and prepared, they do not pose a risk to consumers.

Preventive Measures & Reporting

The public is strongly advised not to handle sick or dead wild birds. Any sightings of sick or deceased birds should be reported immediately through the following channels:

• National Disease Emergency Hotline: 01 492 8026
• Department of Agriculture’s ‘Avian Check’ app

Current Restrictions

Due to the heightened risk of bird flu, a nationwide housing order for all poultry and captive birds in Ireland has been in effect since November. This measure aims to minimize contact between wild birds and domestic poultry. Five outbreaks of the HPAI strain have been detected on commercial poultry farms in Ireland during the winter months. Fota Wildlife Park in Cork was also temporarily closed last October following an outbreak among captive geese [Source: RTÉ News]. Similar cases have been reported on poultry farms in Northern Ireland.

Looking Ahead

Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and collaborate to manage the outbreak effectively. Ongoing vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines are crucial to protect both animal and human health. The Department of Agriculture and Cork County Council will continue to liaise with relevant authorities as the situation evolves.