France has raised its bird flu threat to “high,” intensifying biosecurity measures across poultry farms amid alarming outbreaks in the European Union. With the virus spreading faster than last year, French authorities are taking swift action after recent infections in migratory birds across nearby countries. The upgraded risk level, effective Saturday, aims to curb a potential crisis reminiscent of past outbreaks that devastated poultry populations and heightened fears of human transmission.
Following eight recent outbreaks on French farms, the agriculture ministry has stepped up prevention efforts, including a second vaccination drive for farm ducks after last year’s program proved successful. The UK is also on high alert, reporting cases in Yorkshire after raising its own risk level this week. With early precautions in place, Europe braces for what could be a severe bird flu season.
