H5N1 bird flu detected at Athalassa park in Nicosia

Authorities in Cyprus have confirmed cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus at the Athalassa National Forest Park in Nicosia. The first infected goose was identified by a visitor on September 25 and died shortly thereafter; subsequent laboratory tests confirmed the H5N1 strain on September 28. A second dead goose was discovered in the same area on September 29, leading to further testing. This marks the first detection of the virus in the country in two years.

In response to the outbreak, veterinary services have activated strict biosafety protocols. Four individuals, including the citizen who discovered the first bird and three forestry department officers, are undergoing daily PCR monitoring as a precautionary measure. Experts, including infectious disease specialist Petros Karayiannis, emphasize that the risk to the general public remains low and no human-to-human transmission has been observed. Authorities have instructed visitors to avoid feeding or touching wild birds and have advised domestic poultry owners to enclose their flocks to prevent contact with migratory species. Monitoring of the park continues as officials conduct daily inspections to contain the spread of the virus.