Luxembourg orders poultry confinement after virus found in wild cranes

The Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA) has confirmed two cases of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in wild cranes found in Howald and Rumelange. In response, authorities are urging all poultry farmers to implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the disease from spreading to domestic flocks.

The detections, confirmed on 22 October 2025, coincide with a wider resurgence of the virus across Europe, particularly along wild bird migration routes. ALVA emphasises that preventing contact between domestic poultry and wild birds is critical, as the disease is highly contagious and often fatal for captive birds.

To safeguard poultry farms from the highly pathogenic virus, the following mandatory measures have been issued:

• Poultry must be kept indoors in enclosed buildings.
• Feeding and watering must occur indoors, in areas inaccessible to wild birds.
• If poultry are allowed outdoors, the areas must be fully protected by nets to prevent contact.
• All standard biosecurity rules must be strictly followed.
• Any abnormal mortality, symptoms of avian flu, or changes in production (such as reduced food/water intake or a drop in egg production) must be reported to a veterinarian immediately.

ALVA also reiterated that all poultry imports require an official health certificate (TRACES) issued by a veterinarian in the country of origin, a rule that also applies to purchases made at markets.

The administration stresses that this is a disease affecting birds and poses no risk to public health through the consumption of eggs or poultry meat.