A strong infection dynamic is currently observed in migratory wild birds crossing France. Outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), particularly in populations of gulls, have been detected and are responsible for outbreaks in farms. The last detection dates back to November 1 in Morbihan. The viral strain, identified in migratory birds in central Europe, was also found in two farmyards in France, in the departments of Pas-de-Calais and Saône-et-Loire. By ministerial decree published today, the risk level linked to highly pathogenic avian influenza has been raised to the “high” level across the entire metropolitan area.
Reinforced prevention measures in Maine-et-Loire
Following this development, the measures defined by the ministerial decree of September 25, 2023, relating to surveillance, prevention, control and vaccination against HPAI, are now applicable to the entire department of Maine-et- Loire, and include:
– Cloistering or netting of poultry and other captive birds in establishments keeping fewer than 50 poultry/captive birds (farmyards);
– Sheltering of poultry and other captive birds in establishments with more than 50 poultry/captive birds;
– Strengthening biosecurity measures in the diffusion risk zone (ZRD) in the south-west of the department, particularly in areas with a high density of duck farms. This includes limiting access to these areas and mandatory disinfection of vehicles;
– Virological screening of palmipeds ready to fatten (PAE) within 72 hours before any movement in the ZRD;
– Transport of waterflies only in covered vehicles or equivalent systems;
– Prohibition of gatherings of poultry and captive birds, except for exemptions;
– Specific measures for the transport and use of decoys for hunting, as well as restrictions on the movement of game birds.
It is recalled that, although compulsory vaccination of ducks in farms with more than 250 animals is an important prevention tool, it does not guarantee the absence of contamination. Indeed, even vaccinated farms can become outbreaks, although vaccination significantly limits the excretion of the virus and therefore the risk of dissemination. A call for vigilance is therefore launched to the attention of all stakeholders in the professional sectors concerned, as well as to owners of farmyards. It is essential to strictly apply biosecurity measures in breeding and transport, as well as active and passive surveillance measures in duck farms.
For more information: https://agriculture.gouv.fr/influenza-aviaire-la-situation-en-france.
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