Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds. It can occur in different forms, ranging from mild to severe, and can cause significant economic losses in the poultry industry. The H5N1 subtype of avian influenza is of particular concern because it can cause severe disease in humans, with a mortality rate of around 60%.

In the Czech Republic, the number of detected bird flu outbreaks has been increasing this year, with the latest outbreak confirmed in a poultry farm in Benice, southeast of Prague. According to reports, two poultry had died on the farm, and samples taken from the breed subsequently confirmed the presence of avian influenza of the H5N1 subtype. As a result, the remaining 52 poultry on the farm were slaughtered, and measures were taken to prevent the spread of the disease.

The State Veterinary Administration has banned outdoor poultry farming throughout the country since December 2020 to prevent the spread of bird flu. Despite these measures, however, there have been 16 outbreaks of bird flu in the country so far this year, with the largest outbreak occurring in a chicken farm in Brod nad Tichou in the Tachov region, where almost 750,000 laying hens had to be slaughtered by veterinarians.

To prevent the further spread of bird flu, emergency veterinary measures will be taken, and “closed zones” will be defined around the outbreak in Benice. The closed zones are designed to prevent the movement of animals, animal products, and equipment within and outside the area to contain the disease. Additionally, surveillance and monitoring of birds in the affected area will be intensified to detect any further outbreaks quickly.

It is crucial to take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of bird flu as it can have severe consequences for both the poultry industry and human health. Poultry farmers should ensure that their birds are kept in a clean environment, with good ventilation and hygiene practices, and should report any unusual bird deaths to veterinary authorities immediately.

In conclusion, the confirmed outbreak of bird flu in a poultry farm in Benice, Czech Republic, highlights the importance of taking measures to prevent the spread of the disease. The government should continue to monitor the situation and enforce measures to control and contain the outbreak to prevent further spread. It is also essential for farmers to maintain high standards of hygiene and biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of bird flu transmission.

Article by Prague Forum