#NoBirdFlu: EFSA and European Commission announce practical resources to reduce bird flu risk

As Europe prepares for the autumn bird migration season, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission have released a range of practical resources to help farmers, small flock holders, and veterinarians prevent the spread of avian influenza under the #NoBirdFlu campaign.

Outbreaks of avian influenza can have serious consequences for animal health, food production, farmers' livelihoods, and public health. The #NoBirdFlu campaign promotes five basic biosecurity measures: controlling farm access, maintaining effective cleaning and disinfection routines, preventing contact with wild birds, separating poultry species, and early disease recognition.

Nikolaus Kriz, EFSA’s Executive Director, stated: 'Bird flu prevention starts with everyday biosecurity. #NoBirdFlu helps turn scientific knowledge into simple actions that farmers can apply before the virus reaches the farm.'

Claire Bury, Deputy Director-General for Food Sustainability at the European Commission, added: 'As migratory birds cross Europe, the risk of avian influenza increases. By working together across Member States and sectors, we can help reduce the risk of outbreaks.'

Between October 2025 and June 2026, nearly 8,000 outbreaks were detected in Europe. Detections in wild birds were four times higher than the previous winter, underscoring the vital importance of implementing strong biosecurity measures to limit transmission from wildlife to poultry farms.