Bird flu has been confirmed at a laying hen farm in Uithuizermeeden, Groningen, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN). To prevent the virus from spreading further, approximately 39,000 hens at the site are being culled. This latest case is part of a wider outbreak that has already claimed the lives of more than 2 million birds since October.
The current surge follows a stable six-month period that ended on 7 October, when 71,000 animals were culled in Gasselternijveenschemond. Since then, the virus has been detected at 45 different locations, affecting a variety of birds including chickens, turkeys, ducks, and even flamingos. In an effort to control the situation, a mandatory housing order has been in effect for all poultry since 16 October.
Strict biosecurity measures are now in place around the infected farm in Groningen. Two poultry farms within a 3-kilometre radius are being tested for the virus, while 14 farms within a 10-kilometre radius are under a total transport ban. These farms are prohibited from moving birds, eggs, manure, or litter until further notice.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
