Avian flu suspected after more than 100 geese found dead

More than 100 dead geese have been found in North Karelia in late October, and avian flu is suspected as a possible cause, Yle reports.

The birds were found in Tohmajärvi, Viinijärvi in Liperi, and Niittylahti and Hammaslahti in Joensuu. The cause of death is not yet known.

North Karelia’s wellbeing services county, Siun sote, has taken samples from the birds and sent them to the Finnish Food Authority for testing. Results are expected early in the week.

Avian flu was detected in a dead barnacle goose found in Joensuu in June 2026. The disease was previously recorded in the region in 2021.

Siun sote says avian flu does not spread easily to humans, making the risk of infection very low. Eating poultry meat and eggs is safe.