Visitors to The Lough in Cork city are being asked to avoid contact with sick or dead birds at the sanctuary, after an outbreak of avian flu was confirmed.

Tests for the disease on a number of mallards found dead there proved conclusive for the low pathogenic avian influenza viruses, commonly referred to as bird flu.

A statement by Cork City Council said: “Bird flu or avian influenza is a viral disease which affects the respiratory, digestive and / or nervous system of many species of wild birds and poultry. It is highly contagious amongst birds and it is a notifiable animal disease.

“It can also pose a threat to people and other animals in certain circumstances, but these type of infections are rare. It is very unusual for people to catch bird flu.”

Fishing has been banned at The Lough due to the outbreak, while the bird feeder has also been decommissioned.

The area is undergoing intensive monitoring and surveillance to identify any further cases to ensure sick or dead animals in the area will be swiftly removed.

What is bird flu and what are the risks?

Bird flu, or avian influenza (A1), is a type of influenza that affects birds. Some types - known as low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) – produce very mild illness in birds. However, a small number of flu viruses produce........

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