Spain closes down its poultry farms in order to prevent the spread of Avian Flu by migrating bird

SPAIN has ordered that all poultry be locked down in the country, to prevent the spread of Avian Flu.

The Ministry of Agriculture introduced restrictions last week, ordering poultry to be housed indoors in areas designated as high-risk.

Around 1,200 municipalities were affected.

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This follows a recent rise in bird-flu outbreaks in Europe. 139 cases were reported in Europe between July and August, 14 in Spain (half of which occurred in Castilla y Leon).

In a statement released on Thursday, the Agriculture Ministry stated that “the measure has been taken as a result of an increased risk” of the disease spreading to Spain during the past week.

Avian influenza is caused by the Influenza A virus. It primarily affects bird species, but it can also affect humans and other mammals.

Infection can occur in humans only after prolonged contact with birds infected with mild to severe symptoms, such as fever, diarrhea and coughing.

In 2022, two farm workers in Spain were infected with avian influenza.

During the last month, the number of avian flu outbreaks in poultry and wild birds in central and northern Europe has increased ‘significantly’.

As winter approaches, many migratory bird species will be moving towards Spain.

The ministry believes there is a ‘clear risk of contagion’ from wild birds to farms where breeding is carried out in the open air.

This new order applies to all farms including small and organic producers to prevent contact with birds that may spread the virus.

The law also prohibits the keeping of ducks and geese in the same area as other poultry, untreated surface waters, and bird fairs and exhibitions.

This measure bans the raising and keeping of captive poultry and other birds outside. However, if this isn’t possible, the authorities may allow poultry to be kept outdoors under certain conditions.

Authorities can allow the use of aviary fabric or other devices to prevent wild birds from entering the farm if the farm is not confined.

It’s possible, provided the chicken is fed on site or in an area that keeps wild birds out and prevents them from contaminating or consuming food or drinking water for poultry.

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