Bird Flu Detected in Goose at Athalassa Park in Cyprus

Visitors to Athalassa park in Nicosia, Cyprus have been warned not to approach or feed birds after a goose was found to be infected with H5N1 avian influenza. The Veterinary Services have advised the public to avoid close contact with the birds and are conducting lab tests to determine the virus's virulence. The European Commission and the World Organisation for Animal Health have been informed. Poultry owners have been urged to take precautions to prevent domestic birds from encountering wild or migratory birds, particularly in areas near wetlands. This includes housing domestic poultry in enclosed areas and not providing food or water outdoors that might attract wild birds. Poultry owners must also report any increased illness or deaths among their birds to their district veterinary office.