Avian Influenza Detected in Hierden

Avian influenza has been detected in Hierden (municipality of Harderwijk, Gelderland province) at a duck breeding farm. To prevent virus spread, approximately 10,000 animals at the location are being culled by the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA). Within a 1-kilometer radius, 2 other poultry farms are located and are being tested for the virus and monitored intensively for 14 days. There are no other poultry farms within 3 kilometers. Within 10 kilometers, 13 poultry farms are present. The 10-kilometer zone partly overlaps with the restriction area established on November 30 due to an infection in Zeewolde.

Transport Ban

A transport ban applies immediately throughout the entire 10-kilometer zone. This means that no birds, hatching eggs, or consumption eggs may be transported from locations with birds in this zone. The removal of bird manure and used litter is also prohibited. Other animals than birds and their products may be transported to and from locations with birds provided this is done according to the strict conditions of the hygiene protocol.

These measures are necessary to prevent spread to other parts of the country. Where these measures apply can be seen on the animal disease viewer of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

National Measures

Since October 16, 2025, a national mandatory housing and screening order applies in the Netherlands. The housing order applies to all commercially kept birds. The screening order applies to non-commercially kept risk birds (for example, hobby chickens).

Tracing Investigation

The NVWA conducts tracing investigations into risky contacts. This investigates whether products or poultry have been transported to or from this location in the period prior to the report. If necessary, additional measures follow, such as extra sampling or blocking a risky contact company. These measures are announced via an update in this press release and through the online channels of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN).