October 21, 2024

France raises bird flu risk level to moderate

France has raised its bird flu risk level from "negligible" to "moderate," according to a decree published in the official journal, Reuters reported.

This decision will lead to heightened security measures around poultry farms across the country.

The French Ministry of Agriculture stated that the change in status follows an increase in cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in several neighbouring countries. The rising cases have raised concerns that migratory birds passing through France could transmit the virus.

Several European nations, including Germany, have reported outbreaks of the virus, which has caused the deaths of millions of poultry in previous years.

Since the summer, France has reported four outbreaks of bird flu on farms. In response, the country launched its second vaccination campaign earlier this month, focusing on farm ducks with populations of more than 250 birds. This campaign follows a successful vaccination programme implemented last year.

-      Reuters