Denmark raises bird flu threat level to high as farm outbreaks increase

Denmark raised its bird flu threat level from medium to high on Friday, November 6. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration announced the decision after several autumn outbreaks. The higher level targets the risk of wild birds spreading the virus to domestic poultry.

Strict new rules for bird owners will take effect on Monday, November 9. Owners must keep all domestic birds indoors or under covered enclosures. Providing rainwater to birds is banned because it may carry the virus. Feed and drinking water must also stay indoors or under cover.

Authorities advise changing and disinfecting footwear before entering bird areas. Anyone who suspects their birds are sick should contact a veterinarian. The public can report dead wild birds using the Fugleinfluenza-Tip app.

Denmark recorded three poultry farm outbreaks in recent weeks. Outbreaks in Slagelse on October 23 and Lolland on October 25 caused culling 67,000 turkeys. A smaller outbreak occurred on October 27 in Guldborgsund municipality. The Danish Veterinary Consortium states the risk of human infection remains low.