Bird flu remains a serious problem both globally and in Europe and poses a major threat to the poultry sector in 2025.81 European poultry farms have already recorded outbreaks of the disease.  VVM experts warn   failure to take stringent preventive measures will have very serious consequences   it is imperative to comply with bio-security measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

It is estimated that more than 5.6 million birds have died this year due to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The largest outbreaks to date have been recorded in: 

• Poland – 30 infected farms, 2 323 938 dead birds; 

• Italy – 22 farms, 2 324 450 birds; 

• Hungary – 10 farms, 272 084 birds; 

• Lithuania – 1 farm, 246 387 birds. The 2025 HPAI outbreak in a commercial farm was confirmed on 28 January in Šilutė district (UAB „Vilkyčių paukštynas“), where more than 246,000 laying hens were kept. 

VMVT specialists consider the situation to be extremely dangerous – bird flu continues to spread, and with warmer weather and increased bird migration, the risk is increasing further.

The HPAI has been proactive in disseminating information, but bird keepers must also be aware. Strict adherence to the following biosecurity requirements is essential to minimise the risk of disease spread and economic losses: 

• The area of the holding must be protected from unauthorised persons, animals and vehicles; 

• The area must be kept tidy and the grass must be mown; 

• Disinfection of vehicles before entering the farm shall be ensured; 

• Buildings and premises where feed is stored must be protected from wild birds and rodents

• On-farm recording of information on mortality, water and feed consumption is compulsory;  

• It is recommended to keep birds indoors or in enclosures; 

• Feed should be protected from wild birds, rodents and other animals; 

• Do not use open water bodies for watering birds; 

• Keep domestic geese and ducks separated from other birds; 

• Avoid direct contact with wild birds and do not visit other poultry housing areas. 

Farmers are very important to monitor the health of the birds they keep and to be vigilant for possible signs of avian influenza. Sudden deaths, loss of appetite, respiratory problems, bruising and other unusual symptoms can signal this dangerous disease.

When suspicious signs are noticed, veterinarians should be contacted as soon as possible to protect the farm from huge economic losses and to prevent the spread of the virus.