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Shortage of Christmas turkeys a possibility due to flu outbreak

Shortage of Christmas turkeys a possibility due to flu outbreak

An outbreak of avian flu among turkeys could mean that consumers will struggle to get their hands on the festive bird for the traditional Christmas dinner on December 25th.

It's after a flock of 30,000 turkeys was culled in County Monaghan when avian influenza virus was detected. The government has since introduced a 10k restriction zone around the farm and ruled that poultry suppliers must keep their birds indoors.

The Department of Agriculture has confirmed to The Irish Daily Mail that 49 wild birds have tested positive for Avian Flu in a number of counties, including Waterford.

The risk of avian flu is very low among humans but highly contagious amongst turkeys and other birds.

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The Daily Mail also reports that butchers nationwide say demand for turkeys has been very high in general this year.

For news of Christmas locally, click here.

 

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