Bird flu has been confirmed on a new farm in Ängelholm municipality, leading to the culling of around 19,000 broiler chickens. This follows an initial outbreak where 9,500 turkeys and several thousand chickens and ducks were culled. The Swedish Board of Agriculture describes the situation as ominous amid a season with many outbreaks in Europe.
Bird flu was confirmed on a farm in Ängelholm municipality on Thursday, and on Friday the Swedish Board of Agriculture announced that a nearby farm is also infected. The initial outbreak resulted in the culling of 9,500 turkeys as well as several thousand chickens and ducks. On the new facility, around 19,000 broiler chickens are to be culled to halt the spread.
Katharina Gielen, head of disease control at the Board of Agriculture, comments: "It is very unfortunate, but not unexpected given how the season appears to be and likely will continue. We have seen this in the world around us, there are many outbreaks in Europe. It is a bit ominous." The National Veterinary Institute has warned of an early and worse bird flu season than in several years. In October, 28,000 turkeys were culled in Tomelilla after an outbreak, and Skåne and large parts of southern Sweden are classified as high-risk areas with special rules to protect domestic birds from wild ones.
Following the first outbreak, a restriction zone was established in the area, which is now being adjusted to cover both cases. This includes requirements for commercial facilities to keep their poultry indoors. "The focus now is on culling and gaining control of the infection," says Gielen. She adds: "One can only think that it is extremely sad. There is no other measure. The animals become sick from the virus, it is suffering for the animals."
The Board of Agriculture urges constant vigilance for the infection and to contact veterinarians at the slightest suspicion of bird flu.