This is the first case of the season recorded in the Hautes-Pyrénées. During this migratory period for birds, a common crane, infected with the avian influenza virus, was found dead near Lake Puydarrieux.
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“It has been confirmed that a common crane found dead this month near Lake Puydarrieux has been infected with the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus“, informs the prefect of Hautes-Pyrénées, this November 21, 2024. As a reminder, France has been placed at high risk since November 9.
The circulation of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in avifauna is currently experiencing strong dynamics. And it is often favored by the migration of birds such as common cranes. In the fall, the species reaches distant lands by crossing the Pyrenees.
This November, a specimen of this largest bird in Europe was found dead around Lake Puydarrieux, in the northeast of the Hautes-Pyrénées department. Authorities have just confirmed that this common crane was infected with the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.
The risk of avian flu is attracting a lot of attention in Occitania. “On the coast, we are also in a sector classified as a special risk zone (ZRP)“, recalls the wildlife conservation center – LPO Occitanie, based in Hérault. Result: the reception of the most at-risk species is completely suspended. This concerns larids (seagulls, gulls, etc.) and anatidae (ducks). , swans, geese…)
“For medium-risk species such as other waterbirds, corvids and diurnal ornithophagous raptors, only individuals without any suspicious symptoms can be welcomed, and this, with a very strict protocol. Exceptions are possible only for rare and endangered species, with the agreement of our managers“, explains the wildlife conservation center.
Also read: Avian flu: bans, restrictions, vaccination, what to remember from the new measures announced to fight the virus
The Hautes-Pyrénées prefecture would like to point out that 15 outbreaks of avian flu have to date been detected in France. “Including two recently on vaccinated duck farms in the neighboring department of Landes.“Proof that vaccination cannot be sufficient in all cases to prevent the introduction of the virus and of the need to apply the reinforced measures planned according to the level of risk.
France was classified as high level since November 8, several reinforced measures must be implemented, including, “sheltering poultry, protecting their food and watering.”
The authorities also recall that the virus, which is currently circulating in France and 24 other European countries, “exclusively affects birds“. It is not transmissible to humans through the consumption of poultry meat, eggs, foie gras and more generally any food product.
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