The Department of Agriculture says further tests have indicated that the strain of avian flu discovered in pheasants in Cork is a low pathogenic virus, and not the virulent H5N1 type.
However, final test results will not be known for a few days.
Restriction zones remain on two gun clubs in Co Cork - in Barryroe and near Clonakilty where the infection was first discovered.
The department said its investigations are continuing into the source of the infection, and if other flocks have been infected.
The department also said poultry and poultry products are safe to eat.
Last night, Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney said his staff are doing everything possible to get to the bottom of what caused the outbreak.
Farmers want to ensure that the virus does not spread to big commercial poultry farms and the Irish Farmers’ Association has urged flock owners to step up their biosecurity measures.
