Bird Flu in Athalassa Park. Do not touch or feed wild birds.

Bird flu has been detected in geese at Athalassa Park in Nicosia. Veterinary services confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus, and according to the Cyprus Mail on September 30, a second goose was also infected. Park visitors should avoid approaching the birds, feeding them, or touching sick or dead animals.

Four people who had direct contact with the birds were tested for preventive measures. The results so far have been negative. The risk to the general population remains low, but close contact with an infected animal or its feces requires special caution.

Two geese and testing of people after contact

The first case involved a goose found near a lake in Athalassa National Forest Park. A visitor to the park noticed the animal's unusual behavior and notified authorities. The bird was taken away and subsequently died. Tests confirmed H5N1.

A second dead goose was later found. Initial reports indicated a suspected infection and that results were pending. On Wednesday, September 30, the Cyprus Mail reported the confirmation of a second case, citing veterinary services.

The person who found the first bird and three other emergency services personnel were tested. The newspaper's source explained that the term "quarantine," used in previous publications, does not accurately describe the situation. The focus is on preventative measures and regular testing, which have so far shown no evidence of infection.

The information about two cases in birds does not mean confirmed cases in humans.

Bird flu: what should park visitors do?

The most important recommendation is simple: do not approach the birds or attempt to help them yourself. A weakened goose or duck may appear to require rescue, but moving it or taking it home increases the risk of exposure to infectious material.

Warning signs in birds may include difficulty breathing, balance problems, or unusual gait patterns. However, appearance alone doesn't diagnose the condition; laboratory testing is required to confirm it.

Does the virus pose a threat to humans?

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, or ECDC, assesses the risk to the general population of Europe as lowFor people exposed occupationally or through direct contact with infected animals, the risk is higher: low to moderate.

Human infection can occur through close contact without proper protection. Material containing the virus can enter the eyes, nose, or mouth, and can also be inhaled.

ECDC indicates that no cases have been observed established transmission between peopleThis is more accurate than saying that the virus has never spread from person to person.

Symptoms after contact with a bird require consultation

Symptoms may include conjunctivitis, fever, cough, and other flu-like symptoms. In some cases, the illness can be severe.

If symptoms appear after contact with a suspicious bird, contact a doctor and clearly state that you have had contact with an animalIt is best to notify the facility by phone before arrival.

The recommendations also apply to home breeding.

Poultry owners should protect their birds from contact with wild animals. Veterinary services advise keeping poultry in enclosed, roofed areas and not leaving food and water outside.

The virus can also be transmitted indirectly—through dirty equipment, footwear, or water. Therefore, maintaining clean rooms, limiting access to unauthorized persons, and monitoring the birds' health are crucial.

Descriptions of herd liquidation and protection zones should not be automatically applied to the entire park. Such procedures apply, among other things, to outbreaks on farms and require decisions by the relevant authorities.

Where to report a suspicious case?

Suspected disease or an increased number of dead birds should be reported to the veterinary services. Below are the numbers provided in Philenews' material regarding the current situation.

When reporting a bird, it's helpful to include the location, number of birds, and observed behavior. A photo can be taken from a safe distance, without approaching the animal.

Can you eat eggs and poultry?

According to the ECDC, properly prepared poultry products are safe. Thorough heat treatment inactivates the virus.

Normal kitchen hygiene rules should be followed: separate raw meat from prepared foods and wash hands, surfaces and utensils after handling raw poultry.

For residents, the most important actions right now are three: avoiding contact with wild birds, reporting suspicious cases, and securing your own breeding stock. Information on the local situation reflects reports available on September 30.

Sources: Veterinary Service of the Republic of Cyprus, Cyprus Mail, Philenews, ECDC