November 18, 2016.
The risk of avian influenza has fallen from “negligible” to “high” in certain regions of France. What will be the consequences for breeders?
Several cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza
According to a decree published in the Official Journal, Thursday, November 17, there is a new risk of avian flu in many French municipalities. This measure ” follows the discovery of several cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza subtype H5N8 in avifauna and in commercial farmed poultry in Germany, Switzerland and other countries of the European Union “, Said the French authorities.
The risk was raised from ” negligible ” To ” moderate “Or even” high “in some parts of France. The areas most at risk are wetlands, the territories located in coastal estuaries, on coasts and near lakes, where migratory wild birds carrying the virus could make stops.
Should we be worried?
This decree is a further blow for farmers, already severely affected by an epidemic of avian flu last year. In areas where the risk is high, the authorities ask them to compulsorily confine their animals or to lay nets, to prevent any contact with wild birds coming from the rest of Europe.
” For a year, we have been so aware of the subject, that there is no need to worry », Tried to reassure Marie-Pierre Pé, spokesperson for the Interprofessional Committee of Foie Gras Palmipeds (CIFOG), in the columns of the Figaro. ” We just get back to a state of vigilance “. According to her, all the measures put in place over the past year should make it possible to avoid any contamination. These measures cost the industry 500 million euros.
For more information: Influenza A (H1N1) and vaccination: taking stock
