Published: November 21 2023
An outbreak of H5N1 bird flu has been reported in Békés County, southern Hungary, posing a threat to poultry farms in the region. The national food safety authority, Nébih, has confirmed the presence of the virus in a sample taken from a poultry farm in Orosháza, where 7,400 mallard geese are being destroyed.
Spread of the Outbreak
H5N1 bird flu has already been detected in several other counties in Hungary, including Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok, Csongrád-Csanád, Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Bács-Kiskun, and Hajdú-Bihar. An epidemiological investigation is underway to determine the cause of the outbreak.
Measures Taken
A 3km radius observation zone has been established around the affected farm. While mandatory confinement of poultry is only required in high-risk counties, all poultry farms nationwide must adhere to regulations such as indoor feeding and drinking, as well as proper storage of feed and litter.
Impact on Poultry Farms
The outbreak of bird flu poses a significant threat to poultry farms in southern Hungary. Farmers will need to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus and protect their livestock.
Conclusion
The outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in southern Hungary has raised concerns for poultry farms in the affected regions. It is crucial for farmers to follow the guidelines and regulations set by Nébih to mitigate the spread of the virus and safeguard their poultry.
Questions & Answers
What is the current situation with bird flu in Hungary? H5N1 bird flu has been detected in Békés County in south-eastern Hungary. It has also appeared in several other counties, including Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok, Csongrád-Csanád, Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Bács-Kiskun, and Hajdú-Bihar.
Where was the virus detected in the recent outbreak in Hungary? The virus was confirmed in a sample taken from a poultry farm in Orosháza, Békés County. The farm was rearing 7,400 mallard geese, which are in the process of being destroyed.
What actions are being taken to control the outbreak of bird flu in Hungary? An epidemiological investigation is underway to determine the cause of the outbreak. A 3km radius observation zone has been demarcated around the affected farm. In high-risk counties, the mandatory confinement of poultry is implemented. Nationwide, indoor feeding and drinking for poultry, as well as the storage of feed and litter in closed places, are required.
Does the mandatory confinement of poultry apply to the entire country? No, the mandatory confinement of poultry only applies in high-risk counties. However, indoor feeding and drinking, as well as the storage of feed and litter in closed places, are required nationwide.
What should poultry farmers do to prevent the spread of bird flu in Hungary? Poultry farmers should follow the guidelines set by the national food safety authority (Nébih) to prevent the spread of bird flu. This includes implementing confinement measures in high-risk counties and ensuring proper indoor feeding, drinking, and storage practices in all locations.
Is bird flu a threat to humans in Hungary? The H5N1 bird flu virus can pose a threat to humans. However, there have been no reports of human cases in relation to the recent outbreak in Hungary. It is important for individuals to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds and to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling poultry or visiting farms.
