France Elevates Bird Flu Alert: A Nationwide Poultry Lockdown

France has elevated its bird flu alert level to 'high' due to increasing cases in Europe, mandating poultry to be housed indoors. This change follows outbreaks among wild and farmed birds. The decision aims to curb the disease that previously resulted in mass poultry culls and potential human health threats.

In response to rising cases of bird flu across Europe, France has elevated its alert level from 'moderate' to 'high'. This directive mandates poultry farms to keep birds indoors as a preventative measure against the highly pathogenic seasonal disease.

The agriculture ministry announced the heightened alert after several outbreaks were identified, emphasizing the spread by migratory birds. The country's official journal highlighted infections in both wild and domestic avian populations, signaling increased disease spread concerns.

Two outbreaks have already been detected on poultry farms, with three more in backyard flocks since October. Additionally, this year's heightened alert is being enforced earlier than in previous years, taking effect this October, earlier compared to updates in the past.

(With inputs from agencies.)