Bird Flu Outbreaks prompt Nationwide Housing Order in the Netherlands
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Recent outbreaks and culling Operations
The Netherlands is facing a resurgence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. On October 22, 2024, authorities reported an outbreak at a laying hen farm in Dodewaard, Gelderland province, resulting in the culling of approximately 161,000 birds.This action, carried out by the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety authority (NVWA), aims to prevent further spread of the virus.
This outbreak follows a similar incident earlier in October, where approximately 71,000 birds were culled at a farm in the province of Drenthe. The NVWA is actively tracing contacts and movements related to both outbreaks to contain the infection.
Movement Restrictions and National Housing Order
To limit the spread of the virus, a 10-kilometer transport ban has been implemented around the affected farm in Dodewaard. This ban restricts the movement of poultry, hatching eggs, consumption eggs, bird manure, used litter, and other animal products from poultry farms within the zone.
On October 16, 2024, the Dutch government enacted a nationwide order requiring all commercially kept birds to be housed indoors. Owners of non-commercial flocks are mandated to shield thier birds from contact with wild birds, a key vector for the disease.This measure underscores the heightened concern regarding avian influenza transmission.
Increased Risk Assessment
An expert risk assessment conducted by Dutch authorities has elevated the risk of infection for poultry farms across the Netherlands to “moderate,” up from a previous assessment of “low to moderate.” This change reflects the increasing frequency and geographic distribution of recent outbreaks. The NVWA continues to monitor the situation closely and will adjust measures as needed to protect the poultry industry and public health.
