WattAgNet: Avian influenza hits layer hen flock in Netherlands

22,273 birds are destroyed after presence of low pathogenic avian influenza is confirmed
Release Date: 2015-03-27
A flock of free-range layer hens in the Netherlands has been infected with low pathogenic avian influenza, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) reported on March 27. The affected farm is located in Tzummarum, in the province of Friesland.

According to the OIE report, there were 22,273 susceptible birds in the flock, although none died from an infection. However, all of the susceptible birds have been destroyed. A 1-kilometer restriction zone has been established, and the other premise within that zone is being screened.

Other protective measures that have been taken include movement control inside the country.

The source of the outbreak has not yet been determined.

Samples taken to the Central Veterinary Institute laboratory in Lelystad tested positive for an H7 strain of the virus, although the exact serotype has not been released.

The last case of low pathogenic H7 avian influenza to be reported in the Netherlands occurred in June, 2014, according to the OIE. However, the country had two confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in November 2014. A total of 42,600 birds, identified as layer and breeding hens, at the two affected premises were destroyed.

OIE stated that it will submit weekly reports on the situation until it is resolved.