EU says tests reveal H5N1 strain of bird flu found in northern Cyprus

The European Commission said Sunday that tests conducted in a British laboratory on samples from birds in northern Cyprus had revealed they had died of the deadly H5N1 strain of the virus.

"No live animals or animal products, including all poultry products and feathers, can be transferred across the Green Line or to the European Union," it said, adding that two EU experts would leave for the area to investigate the situation.

The EU said it would be ready to assist with surveillance if needed. Cypriot authorities have already taken action to prevent the spread of the disease, including keeping all poultry indoors, AP reported. V.A.