This is the third case in a few weeks, after those in Ille-et-Vilaine and Morbihan in August 2024. This Wednesday, September 4, the Finistère prefecture confirmed the discovery of an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a free-range poultry farm. The name of the farm concerned has not been revealed.
In order to prevent the spread of the virus and in accordance with legal obligations, the prefect of Finistère has implemented, by decree, “a regulated area of protection and surveillance”within a radius of 3 and 10 km around the contaminated establishment.
Seventeen municipalities are concerned (Saint-Eloy, Sizun, Saint-Rivoal, Lopérec, Hanvec, Le Faou, Irvillac, Tréflévénez, La Martyre, Ploudiry, Locmélar, Saint-Sauveur, Commana, Brasparts, Pont-de-Buis, Rosnoën, Le Tréhou).
“Census of all poultry keeping locations”
In this area, “A census is carried out of all places where poultry, commercial or non-commercial farms, and other captive birds are kept in conjunction with the town halls. The surveillance and monitoring of agricultural holdings is carried out by health veterinarians who will carry out a systematic visit”, announces the prefect.
Gatherings of poultry or other captive birds, such as fairs, markets and exhibitions, are prohibited in this area, as are the movement of poultry, day-old chicks and hatching eggs out of the farm.
Generally speaking, “and to limit the spread of the virus, which could have significant economic consequences”the State representative recalls the actions to limit the transmission of the virus between animals: “Avoid all contact with wild birds including feathers and droppings, do not pick up or touch wild, sick or dead birds, do not come into contact with domestic birds”.
“This virus is not transmissible to humans”
In order to reassure the population, the prefecture emphasizes: “This virus is not transmissible to humans, but it can affect domestic birds. It therefore represents a risk for poultry farming. The consumption of meat, foie gras and eggs – and more generally any food product made from poultry – does not present any risk to humans.”
To report the discovery of dead wild birds or sick birds, contact the town hall or the French Biodiversity Office at sd29@ofb.gouv.fr
And all poultry owners are required to adhere to strict biosecurity measures. This includes restricting outdoor access for domestic birds to limit their exposure to wild birds, which are known carriers of the virus.
The prefecture has also called on all poultry farmers to report any unusual health issues among their birds, including signs of illness or increased mortality. These precautions are essential to help contain the outbreak and minimize the risk of transmission to other flocks.
Public health officials are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to implement further measures if necessary. The rise in avian influenza cases has raised concerns not only for poultry industries but also for public health, as the virus can pose risks to humans in certain circumstances.
Local authorities are actively working with farmers, veterinarians, and other stakeholders to ensure that the situation is managed effectively, and to protect both animal and public health in the affected regions.
