Avian influenza detected in Abbekerk (NH)

In Abbekerk (municipality of Medemblik, North Holland province), avian influenza has been detected in a hobbyist with ornamental waterfowl. It is likely a highly pathogenic variant. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) is culling the approximately 100 birds to prevent further spread.

In the 1-kilometer zone of the infected farm, there are no other poultry farms. In the 3-kilometer zone, there is 1 poultry farm that is being screened for avian influenza by the NVWA. This farm will be closely monitored for symptoms over the next 14 days. In the 10-kilometer zone, there are 8 poultry farms where a transportation ban is in effect.

The transportation ban applies to all birds, eggs, manure, and materials from birds. Hunting waterfowl is prohibited in this area. See the current infections and measures on the map in the Animal Disease Viewer from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

National measures remain in effect, including a ban on visiting bird habitats of at-risk birds unless absolutely necessary. In this region, there is a confinement obligation for commercially kept birds.

For non-commercially kept at-risk birds, a shielding obligation applies. More information can be found on the NVWA website: confinement and shielding obligation. There is also a ban on displaying poultry and waterfowl.

A tracing investigation is being conducted into risky contacts. If necessary, additional measures will be taken and reported via updates in this press release and through the online channels of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV).