H5N1 bird flu detected in wild geese at Athalassa National Forest Park

Veterinary authorities in Cyprus have confirmed a case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in a wild goose at Athalassa National Forest Park in Nicosia. The infected bird was initially spotted by a member of the public on September 25 exhibiting abnormal behavior; it was collected by the Game and Fauna Service but died the following day. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the virus on September 28, following an identification process that began after preliminary results on September 25.

As a preventive measure, three game wardens and the citizen who found the bird have been placed under medical monitoring and are undergoing daily PCR testing, all of which have returned negative results so far. On September 29, a second dead goose was discovered at the park and has been sent for testing to determine if it also carried the virus. Authorities have notified the European Commission and the World Organisation for Animal Health regarding the situation.

Veterinary Services have urged the public to avoid feeding, approaching, or coming into contact with birds in the park. Poultry farmers and backyard bird owners have been strictly instructed to secure their flocks in enclosed, covered areas and to prevent any contact with wild or migratory birds. Epidemiological investigations remain ongoing to assess the extent of the outbreak.