2023-06-07 12:02:26
Although Belgium has recovered this status, caution remains in order, especially since the virus is still present in wild birds.
Ln May 30, Belgium published its self-declaration of the status free from infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses in poultry. This has just been approved by the World Organization for Animal Health, which therefore recognizes the disease-free status of our country. This recovery will make it possible to lift numerous embargoes as well as the reestablishment of Belgian exports.
As a reminder, despite a brief lull and a temporary easing of measures during the summer of 2022, a new wave of avian flu made it necessary to strengthen prevention measures with the application of additional biosecurity measures for all poultry keepers and of captive birds registered in Sanitel. This reinforcement has made it possible to limit the number of avian flu outbreaks in Belgium (29 in 2022, 15 in 2023). The last outbreak was identified on February 24.
The virus is still circulating
The Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (Afsca) nevertheless calls on breeders to be cautious. Indeed, the circulation of the virus is still active in wild bird populations but also in poultry and the holders of captive birds in Europe. Currently, cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza are also still regularly confirmed in wild bird populations in Belgium and the risk of infection for poultry and bird owners is real.
In the past, the virus disappeared in the spring with the migration of large groups of waterfowl to their breeding grounds in Asia. But, in recent years, the disease persists longer, thereby maintaining a continuous pressure of infection.
In May 2022, during the lull in the avian flu epidemic, Belgium had already been able to recover its free status. Unfortunately, this had been lost once more in September of the same year, resulting in severe restrictions for exports of poultry and their products to third countries. “It is therefore more important than ever to redouble our vigilance and to continue to apply strict biosecurity to preserve this status”, insists Afsca.
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