**Bird Flu Detected in Goose at Athalassa Park, Public Advised to Stay Away from Birds**
Nicosia, Cyprus – The Veterinary Services of Cyprus have issued a warning to the public following the detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in a goose at Athalassa Park, a popular recreational area in Nicosia. The announcement was made on Tuesday, urging visitors to refrain from approaching or feeding any birds in the park.
In light of this discovery, the Veterinary Services are actively conducting laboratory tests to assess the virulence of the virus. The situation has also been communicated to the European Commission and the World Organisation for Animal Health to ensure proper monitoring and response protocols are in place.
Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential spread of the virus to domestic poultry. Poultry owners have been advised to take precautionary measures to prevent their birds from coming into contact with wild or migratory birds, especially in regions close to wetlands where such interactions are more likely to occur.
To mitigate the risk of infection, poultry should be housed in enclosed and covered areas. Additionally, owners are instructed not to place food or water outdoors in a manner that could attract wild birds. This includes avoiding the use of surface reservoirs for providing water to domestic poultry, as these sources may be accessible to wild birds that could carry the virus.
The Veterinary Services have emphasized the importance of vigilance among poultry owners. They are urged to report any unusual increases in illness or mortality among their birds, as these could be indicators of avian influenza. Immediate reporting can be done through the district veterinary offices, with contact numbers provided for various regions:
- Nicosia: 22 805241
- Larnaca: 24 821275
- Famagusta: 24 824555
- Limassol: 25 819512
- Paphos: 26 821260
The H5N1 virus, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly pathogenic strain that can affect various species of birds and can potentially pose health risks to humans. The detection of the virus in a wild bird raises concerns about its transmission and the need for public awareness and preventive measures.
As the situation develops, the Veterinary Services will continue to monitor the park and surrounding areas, providing updates as necessary. In the meantime, visitors to Athalassa Park are advised to exercise caution and adhere to the guidelines set forth by health authorities to ensure both their safety and the welfare of local wildlife.