Switzerland - Avian flu H5N1 detected in birds 2022 - 2023

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Avian flu: a gray heron and a peacock infected in the canton of Zurich

Bern, 17.11.2022 - The H5N1 avian flu virus has been detected in a gray heron and a peacock in the canton of Zurich. In collaboration with the cantonal veterinary authorities, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (OSAV) is preparing measures to protect domestic poultry in the region concerned. This is the first case of the disease in Switzerland this fall.

For some time now, the bird flu virus has been present in a large part of Europe. In this context, it is therefore not surprising that the disease appears again in Switzerland this winter semester: the first case discovered concerns a gray heron and a peacock in an amateur holder domiciled in Seuzach, in the canton of Zurich. Alongside the sanitation of the premises, the FSVO is collaborating with the cantons concerned to prepare measures intended to prevent the spread of the epizootic. Further information will follow.

Avoid contact between wild birds and domestic poultry

The FSVO reminded this week of the fundamental rules of behavior for poultry owners:

• Protect access to poultry feeding and watering areas.

• Respect the biosecurity measures, namely: before entering the detention areas, change shoes and outerwear and disinfect your hands.

• It is always possible to let the animals out in the open air. It will be necessary, if necessary, to be able to cover the enclosures and to confine the animals inside. The condition of the fences should also be checked.

As a precautionary measure, people who find dead wild birds are asked not to touch them and to inform the nearest police station or wildlife ranger.

The registration of poultry farms has been compulsory since 1 January 2010. This obligation also concerns amateur keepers who own only a few animals. According to current knowledge, the H5N1 virus strain is only transmissible to humans in extremely rare cases and only after very close contact.

---

Address for sending questions
Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO)
Media service
Tel. 058 463 78 98
media@blv.admin.ch

https://www.admin.ch/gov/fr/accueil/documentation/communiques.msg-id-91722.html

[sharon sanders]

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Switzerland - Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

GENERAL INFORMATION
COUNTRY/TERRITORY OR ZONE
COUNTRY/TERRITORY

ANIMAL TYPE
TERRESTRIAL

DISEASE CATEGORY
OIE-listed

EVENT ID
4733

DISEASE
Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-)

CAUSAL AGENT
Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus

GENOTYPE / SEROTYPE / SUBTYPE
H5N1

START DATE
2022/11/13

REASON FOR NOTIFICATION
Recurrence of an eradicated disease

DATE OF LAST OCCURRENCE
2022/04/29

CONFIRMATION DATE
2022/11/17

EVENT STATUS
On-going

END DATE
-

SELF-DECLARATION
NO

REPORT INFORMATION
REPORT NUMBER
Immediate notification

REPORT ID
IN_157928

REPORT REFERENCE
HPAI_2022_CH

REPORT DATE
2022/11/18

REPORT STATUS
Validated

NO EVOLUTION REPORT
-

EPIDEMIOLOGY

SOURCE OF EVENT OR ORIGIN OF INFECTION
Contact with wild species

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL COMMENTS

The two birds have been found dead in an aviary and on a natural pond. A wild grey heron (Ardea cinerea) was found on November 14 and a peacock (Pavo cristatus) on November 16, 2022. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing. There have been no movements of animals or products of animal origin from the establishment. However, the pond is accessible for wild birds. The non-commercial establishment has been put under movement restriction. Measures as regards the remaining birds are being carried out. A protection and a surveillance zone will be in force in the next days.
...
...
NEW OUTBREAKS
OB_109048 - SEUZACH
OUTBREAK REFERENCE
HPAI_2022_ZH_1

START DATE
2022/11/13

END DATE
-

DETAILED CHARACTERISATION
-

FIRST ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Zürich

SECOND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Winterthur

THIRD ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Seuzach

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL UNIT
Other

LOCATION
Seuzach

Latitude, Longitude
47.543 , 8.737

(Approximate location)
OUTBREAKS IN CLUSTER
-

MEASURING UNIT
Animal

AFFECTED POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The two birds have been found in a parcel of land in the municipality of Seuzach, where around 100 birds of several species are kept in an aviary and in a natural pond . A wild grey heron (Ardea cinerea) was found dead on 14.11.2022. Samples were sent to the National Reference Center for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK, Zurich, Switzerland), where they tested positive for avian influenza of the subtype H5N1 in RT-qPCR on Datum. Confirmation and sequencing analyses were carried out at the Institute of Virology and lmmunology (IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland) where highly pathogenic avian influenza was confirmed on Datum. A peacock (Pavo cristatus) was found dead on 16.11. Samples were sent to the National Reference Center for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK, Zurich, Switzerland), where they tested positive for avian influenza of the subtype H5N1 in RT-qPCR on Datum. Confirmation and sequencing analyses were carried out at the Institute of Virology and lmmunology (IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland) where highly pathogenic avian influenza was confirmed on 18.11.2022. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing. There have been no movements of animals or products of animal origin from the establishment. However, the pond is umaccessible for wild birds. The establishment has been put under movement restriction . Killing and sampling of remaining birds is under preparation. Further measures such as establishing a protection and a surveillance zone are foreseen for the next days.

SpeciesSusceptibleCasesDeathsKilled and Disposed ofSlaughtered/ Killed for commercial useVaccinated
Grey Heron (WILD)NEW-11000TOTAL-11000
Birds (DOMESTIC)NEW10011000TOTAL10011000
All species NEW 100 2 2 000
TOTAL100 2 2 000
...

https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/4733

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Avian flu: nationally ordered control measures


Bern, 24.11.2022 - Avian flu has appeared in a hobby poultry owner in the canton of Zurich. In this context, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (FSVO) has ordered, in consultation with the cantons concerned, nationwide measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

For some time, the bird flu virus had been present in a large part of Europe, which increased the risk that wild birds could introduce the epizootic into Switzerland. Last week, the canton of Zurich announced the first two cases of the disease, identified in Seuzach. Given the risks, the FSVO orders, in collaboration with the cantons concerned, preventive measures applicable throughout Switzerland. The main objective is to avoid any contact between wild birds and domestic poultry.

Rules for poultry owners throughout Switzerland

As of Monday, November 28, 2022, all poultry keepers in Switzerland will be required to comply with the following rules:

• Only allow poultry out in areas safe from wild birds. If this is not possible, ensure that wild birds cannot gain access to poultry feeding and drinking areas. Protect exit areas and pools by installing fences or close-meshed netting.

• Separate the hens from the geese and ducks.

• Prevent the virus from being introduced into the rearing unit through people or equipment: therefore limit access to the poultry house to what is strictly necessary and install a hygiene lock. Wear clean shoes and clothes, wash and sanitize your hands before entering the barn.

Please note that poultry markets and exhibitions will be prohibited.

These measures, which apply to all owners of poultry, even amateurs, will be in force until at least February 15, 2023. The animal welfare contributions for "Particularly animal-friendly housing systems" and " Regular outings in the open air" will be guaranteed and the denomination "Free-range breeding" may still be used.

The registration of poultry farms has been compulsory since 1 January 2010, even for people who keep only a few animals.

Avian flu is gaining ground in Europe

Over the past two years in Europe, more than 6,000 cases of avian flu have been recorded among wild birds. In 2022, for the first time, several hundred wild birds were affected during the summer. The characteristics of the virus have changed, so that more and more species of birds (wild and domestic poultry) are affected. Result: the risk that wild birds introduce the virus into the country increases, the danger is no longer limited to bodies of water and waterways. The situation is particularly delicate at the moment with the arrival in our latitudes of birds from north-eastern Europe that have come to winter.

Specialists expected the first cases in Switzerland. It is therefore not surprising that the bird flu virus was discovered in the country, in this case in an amateur holder in Seuzach, in the canton of Zurich. It involved two birds found dead, a gray heron and a peacock. The Zurich Veterinary Service placed the farm in receivership and ordered remediation measures. A protection zone and a surveillance zone have been set up in the immediate vicinity. Poultry keepers must comply with stricter protection and hygiene measures in order to avoid any spread of the virus. Some parts of Thurgau municipalities are also affected.

Do not touch dead birds

According to current knowledge, the H5N1 virus strain is only transmissible to humans in extremely rare cases and only after very close contact. Poultry products, such as chicken meat and eggs, are safe to eat. For safety reasons, avoid touching wild birds found dead. They should be reported to the wildlife warden, the police or the veterinary service.

...

https://www.admin.ch/gov/fr/accueil/documentation/communiques.msg-id-91912.html

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Avian flu detected in a swan near Locarno

The Ticino canton has its first case of the H5N1 virus in wild birds.

Posted today at 2:06 p.m.
Updated 4 hours ago

The H5N1 avian flu virus has been detected in a swan in the Locarno region, the Ticino Department of Health and Social Affairs announced on Monday. The canton of Zurich announced in mid-November the first two cases of this fall in Switzerland.

Following the Zurich cases, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (FSVO) last week ordered nationwide measures until at least February 15 to prevent the spread of avian flu. In collaboration with the cantons concerned, it is a question of avoiding any contact between wild birds and domestic poultry.

Poultry keepers, even amateurs, will only be able to let them out in areas that are safe from wild birds. If this is not possible, they must ensure that wild birds cannot access the places where the poultry feed and drink.

Heron and peacock

In order to avoid introducing the virus into a farm, access to the hen house must be limited to what is strictly necessary and a hygiene lock installed. Poultry markets and exhibitions will be prohibited.

In Seuzach (ZH), the H5N1 virus affected a gray heron and a peacock in an amateur bird owner. Both birds were found dead.

Since the bird flu virus had been present in much of Europe for some time, specialists expected cases in Switzerland. The current period is also particularly delicate because many birds from north-eastern Europe arrive in Switzerland to winter.

Do not touch dead bodies

According to current knowledge, the H5N1 viral strain is only transmissible to humans in extremely rare cases and only following very close contact, according to the OSAV. And to add that chicken meat and eggs can be eaten without fear.

For safety reasons, the FSVO still recommends avoiding touching wild birds found dead. They must be reported to the wildlife warden, the police or the veterinary service. The characteristics of the virus have changed so much that more and more species of birds, both wild and domestic, are affected.

Last winter in Switzerland, bird flu only appeared in a few isolated birds. The cases had been reported in a poultry farm in the canton of Zurich, on the banks of the Rhine in the canton of Schaffhausen and in the animal park of Bern.

TTY

https://www.tdg.ch/la-grippe-aviaire...o-395471415738

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Avian flu virus detected in a seagull in Sursee (LU)

30.01.2023 – The H5N1 avian influenza virus was detected in a yellow-legged gull in Sursee (LU). The bird was found a week ago near the old town. He had typical symptoms.
Poultry farms located near the place of the discovery have been informed, the Chancellery of the canton of Lucerne said on Monday.

As it is a wild bird and no commercial poultry farm is directly affected, the measures in force since the end of November throughout Switzerland do not change for the canton of Lucerne. The precautionary measures must "absolutely continue to be respected".

Do not touch dead birds

These measures include in particular the limitation of free-range production of poultry, protection against contact with wild birds, the separate breeding of hens, geese and ducks as well as hygiene rules. People who find dead wild birds should not touch them and contact the police, the game warden or the game and fishing control service.

At the end of last November, the virus was detected in a swan in Ticino. Previously, the epizootic appeared in a private farm in the canton of Zurich.

According to current knowledge, the H5N1 virus strain is only transmissible to humans in extremely rare cases and only in the event of very close contact. In humans, the first symptoms appear after 2 to 14 days and resemble flu-like symptoms.

Author: Swiss Telegraph Agency (ATS)

https://www.agirinfo.com/actualites/agrinews/detail/ttnews/virus-de-la-grippe-aviaire-detecte-chez-un-goeland-a-sursee-lu/

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.laregione.ch/svizzera/sv...ino-aviaria-lu

Avian flu, after Ticino and Zurich, now there is also a case in Lucerne
The H5N1 virus has been found in a yellow-legged herring gull in Sursee found near the old town
Ats, edited by Red.Web
30.01.2023 - 15:40
Update: 3:57pm


The H5N1 avian influenza virus was identified in a yellow-legged herring gull in Sursee (Lu). The bird was found a week ago near the old city and exhibited typical symptoms.

The bird farms located in the vicinity of the discovery site have been informed, the Chancellery of the Canton of Lucerne said today.

Since this is a wild bird and since no domestic poultry farm is directly affected, the measures that have been in force throughout Switzerland since the end of November do not change for the canton in question. However, the precautionary measures must "absolutely continue to be respected".

Previous cases in Ticino and in Zurich

These measures include in particular restrictions on the exit of backyard poultry to an area protected from wild birds, the separation of chickens from geese and ducks, as well as hygiene rules. For safety reasons, dead wild birds should not be touched. However, they must be reported to the gamekeeper, the police or the veterinary service.

At the end of last November, the virus had been identified in a swan in Ticino. The disease had previously appeared in a private farm in the Canton of Zurich.

According to current knowledge, the strain of the H5N1 virus in circulation is transmissible to humans only in extremely rare cases and only in the event of very close contact. In humans, the first flu-like symptoms appear after 2 to 14 days.

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Extension of preventive measures against avian flu

Bern, 02.02.2023 - The few cases of avian flu recorded in Switzerland and their multiplication in Europe have prompted the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (FSVO) to extend until at least March 15, 2023 the measures aimed at to contain the epizootic in Switzerland. The main action is to prevent contact between wild birds and domestic poultry.

The FSVO extends until March 15, 2023 the measures aimed at containing avian flu, which implies, among other things, that domestic poultry remain kept in areas protected from wild birds. In consultation with the cantons, the office had extended these restrictions to the whole territory in November 2022, after the competent laboratories confirmed the presence of the virus in a farm in Winterthur. The spread of the epizootic was thus largely contained.

Since mid-January 2023, cases of avian flu in wild birds have increased in neighboring countries. In Switzerland, a few tests carried out in December 2022 and January 2023 turned out to be positive: two swans in Ticino, a seagull in four different cantons (Thurgau, Lucerne, Zurich and Schaffhausen), a raptor in the canton of Zurich as well as a heron ash and a wild bird in Basel.

The risk of the epizootic gaining ground will remain high in Switzerland until the waterbirds have left their winter quarters. This situation should therefore continue until the beginning of March. The Confederation recalls the main preventive measures to be observed:

• Only allow poultry out in areas safe from wild birds. If this is not possible, ensure that wild birds cannot gain access to poultry feeding and drinking areas. Protect exit areas and pools by installing fences or close-meshed netting.

• Separate the hens from the geese and ducks.

• Limit the spread of the virus within the breeding unit through people and equipment: restrict contact with animals to what is strictly necessary and install a hygiene airlock. Wear clean shoes and clothes, wash and sanitize your hands before entering the barn.

• Poultry markets and exhibitions remain prohibited.

• As a precautionary measure, although the transmission of the bird flu virus to humans is extremely rare, never touch a dead wild bird. Inform the police station or wildlife ranger in charge.

Both livestock farms and people keeping poultry as an amateur must comply with these measures. Contributions to the animal welfare programs “Extra animal-friendly housing systems” and “Regular outdoor outings” are maintained. The use of the name “open-air breeding” remains authorized for the time being.

The registration of poultry farms has been compulsory since 1 January 2010. This obligation also concerns amateur keepers who own only a few animals.

https://www.admin.ch/gov/fr/accueil/...-id-92747.html

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Case of bird flu in black swans in the canton of Zurich


Bern, 06.02.2023 - The bird flu virus has been detected in a group of black swans belonging to an amateur poultry owner in Zurich's Weinland. In collaboration with the cantonal veterinary authorities, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (FSVO) takes additional measures to protect domestic poultry in the region concerned. National measures in place to avoid contact between wild birds and domestic poultry are maintained at least until March 15, 2023.

For some time now, there has been an increase in the number of cases of avian influenza in a large part of Europe. The risk of introducing the epizootic into Switzerland is therefore high. The announced case concerns five black swans; it appeared at an amateur poultry owner domiciled in Trüllikon, in the canton of Zurich. This is the second case of avian flu discovered this winter in Switzerland in a holding holding poultry. The first appeared in November 2022; the competent laboratories had then demonstrated the virus in a gray heron and a peacock belonging to an amateur holder, near Winterthur. The bird flu virus has also been detected several times in different cantons in dead wild birds.

Reinforced safety measures around the operation where the case appeared

In order to prevent the spread of the epizootic, the authorities of the cantons of Zurich, Schaffhausen and Thurgau have ordered additional protective measures, which go beyond the precautionary measures in force. The Zurich Veterinary Service placed the farm concerned under sequestration and slaughtered the few remaining animals that were threatened by the epizootic. A surveillance zone with a radius of three kilometers has been established around the farm. Reinforced security provisions apply in the poultry farms included in this perimeter. The veterinary services carry out analyzes there to determine, according to the risks, the epizootic status of poultry. In this area, domestic poultry and other birds held in captivity must be housed in closed holding systems. In addition, eggs and poultry must not be transported outside this area. In addition, an intermediate zone with a radius of ten kilometers has been established around the farm in question. Special measures apply there, but only to large farms. These enhanced provisions will be applied for at least three weeks.

Precautionary measures continue to apply everywhere in Switzerland

In November 2022, the Confederation declared the entire territory a “zone of control”, a status which comes with reinforced security conditions. Due to the epizootic situation, the measures are extended at least until March 15, 2023 in order, in particular, to avoid any contact between wild birds and domestic poultry and to comply with special hygiene requirements.

...

https://www.admin.ch/gov/fr/accueil/documentation/communiques.msg-id-92834.html

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Switzerland - Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Follow up report 10

GENERAL INFORMATION
COUNTRY/TERRITORY OR ZONE
COUNTRY/TERRITORY

ANIMAL TYPE
TERRESTRIAL

DISEASE CATEGORY
OIE-listed

EVENT ID
4733

DISEASE
Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-)

CAUSAL AGENT
Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus

GENOTYPE / SEROTYPE / SUBTYPE
H5N1

START DATE
2022/11/14

REASON FOR NOTIFICATION
Recurrence of an eradicated disease

DATE OF LAST OCCURRENCE
2022/04/30

CONFIRMATION DATE
2022/11/18

EVENT STATUS
On-going

END DATE
-

SELF-DECLARATION
NO

REPORT INFORMATION
REPORT NUMBER
Follow-up report 10

REPORT ID
FUR_159251

REPORT REFERENCE
-

REPORT DATE
2023/02/10

REPORT STATUS
Validated

NO EVOLUTION REPORT
-

EPIDEMIOLOGY

SOURCE OF EVENT OR ORIGIN OF INFECTION
Contact with wild species

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL COMMENTS

The two birds have been found dead in an aviary and on a natural pond. A wild grey heron (Ardea cinerea) was found on November 14 and a peacock (Pavo cristatus) on November 16, 2022. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing. There have been no movements of animals or products of animal origin from the establishment. However, the pond is accessible for wild birds. The non-commercial establishment has been put under movement restriction. Measures as regards the remaining birds are being carried out. A protection and a surveillance zone will be in force in the next days. Update 2.12.22: In the Canton of Ticino, municipality San Nazzaro, a mute swan (Cygnus olor) has been found dead on the shore of Lago Maggiore. HPAI H5N1 has been confirmed on November 28, 2022. Update 9.12.22: In the Canton of Ticino, municipality of Locarno, a mute swan (Cygnus olor) has been found dead on the shore of Lago Maggiore. HPAI H5N1 has been confirmed on December 8, 2022. Update 19.12.22: A moribund black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) has been found in the Canton of Thurgau in the municipality of Steckborn. HPAI H5N1 has been confirmed on 15 December, 2022. Update 24.01.2023: A black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) was found dead on 12 January 2023 on the shore of the river Rhein near Stein am Rhein in the Canton of Schaffhausen. A wild grey heron (Ardea cinerea) was found dead inside the zoological garden in the City of Basel (Canton of Basel-Stadt) on 16 January 2023. The bird was found in a pond in an empty semi-open animal enclosure that normally holds Flamingos. As the Basel Zoo keeps the Flamingos as well as the majority of its other birds indoors to protect them from contact with wild birds, the zoo animals had no contact with the grey heron concerned. The outdoor enclosure is cleaned and disinfected. Update 1.2.2023: • In the Canton of Lucerne, a yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis) was found with clinical symptoms in Sursee on 26 January 2023. As its condition deteriorated, it was euthanised on de same day. • In the Canton of Zurich a moribund yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis) was found unable to fly and was shot by the game warden near Wollishofen on 23 January 2023, and a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) was found dead near Rehalp on 26 January 2023. • In the Canton of Basel, a black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) was found dead on 24 January 2023 in the city of Basel.

...

NEW OUTBREAKS

OB_113817 - HP_2023_ZH_3 - ZURICH
OUTBREAK REFERENCE
HP_2023_ZH_3

START DATE
2023/02/03

END DATE
-

DETAILED CHARACTERISATION
-

FIRST ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Zürich

SECOND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Andelfingen

THIRD ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Trüllikon

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL UNIT
Backyard

LOCATION
Zurich

Latitude, Longitude
47.6369 , 8.6944

OUTBREAKS IN CLUSTER
-

MEASURING UNIT
Animal

AFFECTED POPULATION DESCRIPTION
-

SpeciesSusceptibleCasesDeathsKilled and Disposed ofSlaughtered/ Killed for commercial useVaccinated
Black Swan (WILD) NEW - 6 3 1 - -
TOTAL - 6 3 1 - -
Anatidae (unidentified) (WILD) NEW - 2 - 2 - -
TOTAL - 2 - 2 - -
All species NEW - 8 3 3 - -
TOTAL - 8 3 3 - -
...

PREVIOUSLY REPORTED OUTBREAKS

OB_113225 - HPAI_2023_ZH_2 - REHALP...
OB_113223 - HPAI_2023_LU_1 - SURSEE...
OB_113224 - HPAI_2023_ZH_1 - WOLLISHOFEN...
OB_113222 - HPAI_2023_BS_2 - BASEL-STADT...
OB_112712 - HPAI_2023_BS_1 - BASEL-STADT...
OB_112711 - HPAI_2023_SH_1 - STEIN AM RHEIN...
OB_109725 - HPAI_2022_TI_1 - SAN NAZZARO...
OB_109048 - HPAI_2022_ZH_1 - SEUZACH...
OB_110593 - HPAI_2022_TG_1 - STECKBORN...
OB_110120 - HPAI_2022_TI_2 - TENERO...

https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/4733

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Posted 28 February 2023, 11:53

VAUD:

Avian flu lands on La Côte

The disease was diagnosed on an injured bird found in Coinsins (VD).

After reports in Ticino and German-speaking Switzerland , the H5N1 avian flu has returned to the canton of Vaud. The virus was detected after an injured seagull was brought to a care center in Etoy (VD). The animal succumbed to its injuries. The place that hosted the bird was subject to specific measures to limit animal trafficking. Tests were also carried out to determine if the virus had spread to other birds at the centre. In the event of transmission, some animals could be slaughtered.
...
https://www.lematin.ch/story/un-cas-...u-289907982338

-------------------------------------------------

Swiss Posted at 2:29 p.m.

Avian flu kills three seagulls in the cantons of Vaud and Basel-Country

The cantons of Vaud and Basel-Country have recorded their first cases of avian flu. Three seagulls have succumbed to the H5N1 virus, the authorities of the two cantons announced on Tuesday.

An injured seagull was found in Coinsins. The virus was detected after his transfer to a care center in Etoy. The bird succumbed. The corpse was then subjected to research for avian flu where the H5N1 strain was isolated, said the State of Vaud.

Specific measures have been ordered for the care center. They aim to limit animal traffic, in particular by stopping the release of birds.

Additional samples were also taken from a sample of birds from the Etoy center to determine if the virus has spread in the workforce. “Is this a relatively isolated event or has this virus circulated well in the workforce of wild birds? We do not yet have the answer”, declares in the 12:30 p.m. the cantonal veterinarian Giovanni Peduto .

Depending on the results, the measures will be specified, in particular with regard to the killing of animals likely to be affected by the disease.


Dead birds in the Rhine

In Basel-Country, several wild birds have been found dead in recent weeks in the Rhine near Birsfelden. The bird flu virus was discovered on two seagulls. These are the first confirmed cases in the canton, the Basel-Country's economics and health department said on Tuesday.

Cases of bird flu have already been reported in the cantons of Zurich, Basel-Stadt and Lucerne. The virus is widespread all over the world and it has been more present for some time in Europe. “It is therefore not surprising that the disease is again present in Switzerland this winter semester,” he adds.

...

https://www.rts.ch/info/suisse/13822586-la-grippe-aviaire-tue-trois-mouettes-dans-les-cantons-de-vaud-et-de-balecampagne.html

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Posted8 March 2023, 11:27

CANTON OF NEUCHÂTEL

Avian flu appears on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel

A first case of a deceased bird of H5N1 has been recorded in the canton. A seagull found dead in the capital was diagnosed with the virus on Tuesday.

After reports on the Coast , in Ticino and in various places in German-speaking Switzerland, it is the turn of the canton of Neuchâtel to formally identify a first dead bird, positive for the H5N1 virus.

Other birds also discovered lifeless along the coast are being analyzed. "The appearance of avian flu in the canton of Neuchâtel for the first time in more than six years is a reminder of the importance of applying the preventive measures ordered at the national level last November, in particular the prevention of contact between wild birds and domestic birds”, insists the Canton, in a press release.

The purpose of these measures is to protect domestic poultry from transmission of the avian influenza virus by avifauna and to prevent its spread within the Swiss poultry flock. The H5N1 avian influenza virus strain is transmissible to humans only in rare cases and following close contact.

Dog owners have nothing to worry about, according to cantonal veterinarian Pierre-François Gobat. "The rare cases of transmission to other animals that have been listed relate to farmed bison," he says.
...

https://www.lematin.ch/story/la-grippe-aviaire-fait-son-apparition-au-bord-du-lac-de-neuchatel-556288597292

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Avian flu: at least two positive black-headed gulls discovered in the canton of Friborg

MARCH 09, 2023 - 3:31 P.M. PRESS RELEASE

At least two black-headed gulls have been diagnosed with the H5N1 virus. Walkers are advised not to touch a sick or dead bird and to contact the area wildlife warden immediately. Domestic, commercial or leisure poultry: extension of the measures put in place in November for the whole of Switzerland until 30.04.2023.

As in many other Swiss cantons, at least two wild birds carrying the H5N1 virus have been discovered in the canton of Fribourg. It was on the shores of Lake Murten that the black-headed gulls diagnosed as carriers of the H5N1 avian influenza virus were discovered.

Vigilance of stake

The current evolution of cases of Avian Influenza calls for the greatest vigilance. Indeed, the resurgence of attacks by highly pathogenic strains of H5N1 mainly affects the avifauna, namely the populations of black-headed gulls, yellow-legged gulls and gray herons on Swiss territory. These species are currently very active following migratory and future movements. The cases of contamination by the H5N1 virus in seagulls discovered in the canton of Friborg prove the current intense activity of the virus within the populations of wild birds on Swiss lakes.

Transmission of the H5N1 virus to humans is rare, however it is recommended not to touch wild poultry. Any discovery of a dead bird or a sick bird according to the defined criteria must be announced quickly to the wildlife warden of the sector. It is recommended that walkers not handle the animal ( contacts of wildlife wardens by sector ) .

The measures are extended for holders of domestic poultry

In order to prevent the spread of the virus in Switzerland, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (OSAV) implemented measures to contain the epizootic in Switzerland on November 24, 2022. These measures have been extended a first time on 02.02.2023 ( Extension of preventive measures against avian flu ). These measures aim to protect domestic poultry from the transmission of the avian influenza virus by avifauna and to prevent its spread.

These same measures are again extended until April 30, 2023 and we ask all holders of domestic, commercial or leisure poultry to respect them scrupulously. The latter were contacted individually, via a letter dated March 9, 2023, to remind them of the rules and information essential to the fight against this epizootic.

As a reminder, anyone who owns poultry (even for leisure) must report immediately to Grangeneuve, Agriculture section (registration required).
...

https://www.fr.ch/diaf/saav/actualites/grippe-aviaire-au-moins-deux-mouettes-rieuses-positives-decouvertes-dans-le-canton-de-fribourg

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New extension of preventive measures against avian flu

Bern, 09.03.2023 - In view of the resurgence of cases of avian flu in Switzerland and in almost all of Europe, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (FSVO) is extending national preventive measures at least until as of April 30, 2023. The main objective: to avoid any contact between wild birds and domestic poultry. Until further notice, the latter cannot therefore go out freely, even if they are kept according to the principles of free-range breeding.

In agreement with the cantons, the FSVO is extending the preventive measures against avian flu until at least April 30, 2023. In concrete terms, people who keep domestic poultry can either confine them or let them out only in an area protected from wild birds. The FSVO imposed these measures nationwide in November 2022 after the competent laboratories had detected the virus in the operation of an amateur holder near Winterthur.

This winter was marked by many other cases: a group of black swans had been infected on a farm in the canton of Zurich and, across Switzerland, several hundred wild birds were affected. Switzerland had never before experienced such an increase in the number of cases at this time of year, which marks a change in the epidemiological situation. Indeed, the current cases are no longer mainly caused by migratory birds from abroad, but mainly by birds living in Switzerland. While the virus has so far killed mostly seagulls, it can affect many species of wild birds.

Precautionary measures continue to apply everywhere in Switzerland

The following rules must be observed:

Prevent contact between wild birds and domestic poultry.
Limit access to animals to what is strictly necessary and enter the poultry house only after washing hands and putting on clean clothes and shoes.
As a precaution, never touch sick or dead wild birds. Inform the police station or wildlife ranger in charge.
Registration of poultry farms is compulsory. This obligation also concerns amateur keepers who own only a few animals.

Temporary restriction of exits also for free-range poultry

These measures apply both to holders of commercial poultry and to persons keeping poultry as an amateur. The contributions to the animal welfare programs “Extra animal-friendly housing systems” and “Regular outdoor outings” are maintained. However, the outings required in the event of free-range breeding cannot be guaranteed due to the measures put in place. It is indeed the protection of animals against avian flu that takes precedence. The temporary exit restriction is an exception, all other requirements must continue to be met. However, the eggs still bear the words "Free-range". The Confederation and the branch are currently looking for solutions to adapt the designation.
...

https://www.admin.ch/gov/fr/accueil/documentation/communiques.msg-id-93591.html

[Pathfinder]

Switzerland - Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Follow up report 15

GENERAL INFORMATION
COUNTRY/TERRITORY OR ZONE
COUNTRY/TERRITORY

ANIMAL TYPE
TERRESTRIAL

DISEASE CATEGORY
OIE-listed

EVENT ID
4733

DISEASE
Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-)

CAUSAL AGENT
Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus

GENOTYPE / SEROTYPE / SUBTYPE
H5N1

START DATE
2022/11/14

REASON FOR NOTIFICATION
Recurrence of an eradicated disease

DATE OF LAST OCCURRENCE
2022/04/30

CONFIRMATION DATE
2022/11/18

EVENT STATUS
On-going

END DATE
-

SELF-DECLARATION
NO

REPORT INFORMATION
REPORT NUMBER
Follow-up report 15

REPORT ID
FUR_159738

REPORT REFERENCE
-

REPORT DATE
2023/03/09

REPORT STATUS
Validated

NO EVOLUTION REPORT
-

EPIDEMIOLOGY

SOURCE OF EVENT OR ORIGIN OF INFECTION
Contact with wild species

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL COMMENTS
New detections: Wild birds in the Cantons of Argovia, Thurgovia, Zug, Schaffhausen, Lucerne and Zurich • 1 black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Argovia • 3 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Thurgovia • 2 gulls (Larinae) from the Canton of Zug • 1 grey heron (Ardea cinerea) and 2 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Schaffhausen • 2 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Lucerne • 1 mute swan (Cygnus olor) from the Canton of Zurich Due to the high number of dead animals found at the locations mentioned above, only representative samples were taken. The main species affected are gulls. All samples tested positive for avian influenza of the subtype H5N1 in RT-qPCR at the National Reference Center for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK, Zurich, Switzerland). As previous cases of H5N1 positive wild birds from the same regions in Switzerland had been confirmed as HPAI through sequencing analysis of the HA gene cleavage site region, no pathotyping of the above mentioned samples will be carried out. In the context of the current H5N1 epidemiological situation in Switzerland high pathogenicity is highly likely. Update 9.3.23: New detections: Wild birds in the Cantons of Basel-Landschaft, Fribourg, Zug, Lucerne, Schaffhausen, Thurgovia, Vaud and Zurich Since the last Info note wild birds were tested positive for Avian Influenza in the following locations: • 2 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Basel-Landschaft • 1 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Fribourg • 3 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Zug • 1 black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Lucerne • 1 common buzzard (Buteo buteo) and 1 gull (Larinae) from the Canton of Schaffhausen • 4 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and 1 little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis) from the canton of Thurgovia • 2 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) from the Canton of Vaud • 21 black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and 3 mute swans (Cygnus olor) from the Canton of Zurich Due to the high number of dead animals found at the locations mentioned above, only representative samples were taken. The main species affected are gulls. All samples tested positive for avian influenza of the subtype H5N1 in RT-qPCR at the National Reference Center for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK, Zurich, Switzerland). If previous cases of H5N1 positive wild birds from the same regions in Switzerland had been confirmed as HPAI through sequencing analysis of the HA gene cleavage site region, no pathotyping of the samples will be carried out. If new regions of Switzerland are affected, pathotyping will be carried out for representative samples. In the context of the current H5N1 epidemiological situation in Switzerland high pathogenicity is highly likely.

...

NEW OUTBREAKS

OB_115467 - HPAI_2023_ZH_28 - THALWIL...
OB_115465 - HPAI_2023_ZH_27 - OBERRIEDEN
OB_115464 - HPAI_2023_ZH_26 - KÜSNACHT
OB_115462 - HPAI_2023_ZH_25 - HORGEN
OB_115460 - HPAI_2023_ZH_24 - DIETIKON
OB_115458 - HPAI_2023_ZH_23 - ENGE
OB_115454 - HPAI_2023_VD_2 - LAC DE NEUCHÂTEL
OB_115449 - HPAI_2023_TG_4 - ROMANSHORN
OB_115446 - HPAI_2023_SH_5 - STEIN AM RHEIN
OB_115443 - HPAI_2023_LU_4 - LITTAU
OB_115442 - HPAI_2023_SH_4 - HEMISHOFEN
OB_115440 - HPAI_2023_ZG_4 - RISCH
OB_115438 - HPAI_2023_FR_1 - MURTENSEE
OB_115437 - HPAI_2023_ZH_22 - WÄDENSWIL
OB_115436 - HPAI_2023_ZH_21 - MEILEN
OB_115435 - HPAI_2023_ZH_20 - KÜSNACHT
OB_115434 - HPAI_2023_ZH_19 - KILCHBERG
OB_115432 - HPAI_2023_VD_1 - COINSINS
OB_115430 - HPAI_2023_ZG_3 - ZUGERSEE
OB_115429 - HPAI_2023_ZG_2 - ZUGERSEE
OB_115427 - HPAI_2023_BL_1 - AUGST

PREVIOUSLY REPORTED OUTBREAKS

OB_114788 - HPAI_2023_ZH_18 - UNTERENGSTRINGEN...
OB_114787 - HPAI_2023_SH_3 - SCHAFFHAUSEN
OB_114786 - HPAI_2023_TG_3 - LANDSCHLACHT
OB_114785 - HPAI_2023_LU_3 - LUZERN
OB_114784 - HPAI_2023_SH_2 - SCHAFFHAUSEN
OB_114783 - HPAI_2023_ZG_1 - ZUG
OB_114782 - HPAI_2023_TG_2 - ERMATINGEN
OB_114781 - HPAI_2023_AG_1 - DÖTTINGEN
OB_114373 - HPAI_2023_ZH_17 - KILCHBERG
OB_114371 - HPAI_2023_ZH_16 - SEEFELD
OB_114370 - HPAI_2023_ZH_15 - SEEFELD
OB_114170 - HPAI_2023_BS_7 - BASEL-STADT
OB_114169 - HPAI_2023_ZH_14 - WOLLISHOFEN
OB_114168 - HPAI_2023_ZH_13 - GREIFENSEE
OB_114167 - HPAI_2023_ZH_12 - SEEFELD
OB_114165 - HPAI_2023__ZH_11 - ENGE
OB_114164 - HPAI_2023_ZH_10 - KÜSNACHT
OB_114163 - HPAI_2023_ZH_9 - SEEFELD
OB_114162 - HPAI_2023_ZH_8 - SEEFELD
OB_114161 - HPAI_2023_ZH_7 - SEEFELD
OB_114160 - HPAI_2023_ZH_6 - SEEFELD
OB_114159 - HPAI_2023_ZH_5 - SEEFELD
OB_114158 - HPAI_2023_TG_1 - UTTWIL
OB_114157 - HPAI_2023_BS_6 - BASEL-STADT
OB_114156 - HPAI_2023_BS_5 - BASEL-STADT
OB_113929 - HPAI_2023_LU_2 - OBERKIRCH
OB_113928 - HPAI_2023_BS_3 - BASEL-STADT
OB_114153 - HPAI_2023_BS_4 - BASEL-STADT
OB_114155 - HPAI_2023_ZH_4 - ZÜRICH
OB_113817 - HPAI_2023_ZH_3 - ZURICH
OB_113225 - HPAI_2023_ZH_2 - REHALP
OB_113223 - HPAI_2023_LU_1 - SURSEE
OB_113224 - HPAI_2023_ZH_1 - WOLLISHOFEN
OB_113222 - HPAI_2023_BS_2 - BASEL-STADT
OB_112712 - HPAI_2023_BS_1 - BASEL-STADT
OB_112711 - HPAI_2023_SH_1 - STEIN AM RHEIN
OB_109725 - HPAI_2022_TI_1 - SAN NAZZARO
OB_109048 - HPAI_2022_ZH_1 - SEUZACH
OB_110593 - HPAI_2022_TG_1 - STECKBORN
OB_110120 - HPAI_2022_TI_2 - TENERO

https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/4733

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.fr.ch/de/ilfd/lsvw/news/...iburg-entdeckt

Bird flu: At least two H5N1-positive black-headed gulls discovered in the canton of Fribourg
09 March 2023 -15H31 media release


At least two black-headed gulls have been diagnosed with the H5N1 virus. Walkers are advised not to touch a sick or dead bird and to contact the sector's game warden immediately. For keepers of domestic, commercial and hobby poultry, the measures introduced for the whole of Switzerland in November will be extended until April 30, 2023.

As in many other Swiss cantons, at least two wild birds carrying the H5N1 virus were discovered in the canton of Fribourg. Black-headed gulls, which were diagnosed as carriers of the bird flu virus H5N1, were discovered at Lake Murten...