Avian influenza detected in Dalen; 15,000 chickens culled, transport bans imposed
Avian influenza has been detected at a commercial laying-hen farm in Dalen, Drenthe, prompting the culling of about 15,000 chickens and the immediate imposition of transport restrictions in the surrounding area, authorities said. The restricted zone extends into parts of Overijssel and a small section of Germany.
The case follows a separate outbreak within 3 kilometers in early December that led to the culling of 23,000 chickens at another farm that has since remained empty.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature confirmed the infection in Dalen and said the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) is overseeing the response, including the on-site cull.
One other poultry operation is located within a 3-kilometer radius of the affected farm. That facility detected avian influenza on Dec. 4, after which all 23,000 chickens were killed; the site has stood empty since, RTV Drenthe reported.
A transport ban took effect immediately for eight poultry farms within 10 kilometers of the Dalen site. The restrictions prohibit the movement of birds, hatching eggs, and eggs intended for consumption. The ban also covers the removal of poultry manure and used litter.
Since mid-October, the Netherlands has enforced a nationwide housing and screening requirement for poultry sector operators. For hobby chicken keepers, only a screening requirement applies; birds may go outdoors if they are shielded from wild birds, such as by using an aviary.
