Introduction
Avian Influenza (AI) is a highly contagious viral disease to which all poultry species are susceptible.
Infection of poultry can occur through direct contact with sick animals, or through exposure to contaminated materials. Wild birds may be an important source of contamination as they are often carriers of the virus without being visibly ill.
On November 15th of 2021, an 'increased risk period' was declared in Belgium following the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus subtype H5N1 in a wild bird on the territory. Additional biosecurity measures were therefore taken to protect the Belgian flock from the virus.
Since then, the disease has continued to circulate, and multiple cases of HPAI subtype H5 have been identified in wild birds and poultry in Belgium and in neighbouring countries. The increased risk period is currently still in force but the measures were adapted depending on the evolution of the situation. With the return of migratory birds to Europe and the increasing number of outbreaks in poultry in Europe, the measures were strengthened again on the 23rd of November 2024.
For more details, see “Situation in Belgium”.