Avian influenza

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 2021, an 'increased risk period' was declared in Belgium following the detection of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) virus subtype H5N1 in a wild bird on the territory. In the previous weeks, multiple cases of HPAI subtype H5 were also identified in wild birds and poultry in neighbouring countries.

Additional biosecurity measures were therefore taken to protect the Belgian flock from the virus. During 2021 and 2022 HPAI outbreaks still occurred on Belgian territory. The increased risk period is currently still in force and with the return of migratory birds to Europe and the increasing number of outbreaks in poultry in Belgium, the measures were strengthened again on the 9th of December 2023.

For more details, see Situation in Belgium”.

Last updated: 20/12/2023