What is avian influenza?

Avian influenza, also known as AI or bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease affecting chickens and turkeys, although many other birds are also susceptible. Avian influenza viruses can generally be divided into two groups: low-pathogenic (“less severe”) and highly pathogenic (“more severe”) influenza viruses. Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (such as H5N8) can lead to high mortality rates in commercial poultry, such as chickens or turkeys. In contrast, low-pathogenic influenza viruses often cause only mild or no signs of disease, as these viruses lack the properties necessary to trigger a severe illness. Only infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses is referred to as avian influenza.

Avian Influenza – Mandatory Indoor Housing Requirement Lifted

The state capital of Wiesbaden is completely lifting the mandatory housing requirement for poultry that has been in effect since last November. For poultry farms with fewer than 50 birds, this requirement was already lifted in December 2025. Under the new general ruling dated January 17, 2026, larger operations may now also let their poultry out into the open air starting Sunday. Wiesbaden is following the lead of other districts in Hesse, as the outbreak situation has also subsided in Wiesbaden. 

However, compliance with biosecurity measures remains mandatory, as these are an effective tool for reducing the risk of pathogen introduction.

Specifically, this means that poultry farmers must continue to protect their flocks through sensible measures such as wearing protective clothing, controlling rodent infestations, and regularly cleaning and disinfecting equipment.

Please continue to report dead wild and waterfowl to the Office of Veterinary Services. Outside of office hours, please contact the fire department’s command center.

Don’t let bird flu find a way in: Protect your farm!

The fall bird migration will soon take place in Europe. To mark this occasion, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission have developed practical resources as part of the #NoBirdFlu campaign—designed to help farmers, small-scale poultry keepers, and veterinarians prevent the spread of bird flu. 

A toolkit containing various communication materials is available for campaign partners to download for free. It is designed to help communicate measures to contain avian influenza on farms in a clear and effective manner. 

The materials are being translated into all EU languages and made available, for example:

• two infographics with simple instructions for farmers and small-scale poultry keepers,
• a poster that clearly illustrates the most important measures for daily farm operations,
• a video introducing the key measures farmers can take to prevent avian influenza,
• ready-to-use social media content, including posts and stickers, to reach farmers and other target audiences.

The materials are available on the #NoBirdFlu website (https://www.efsa.europa.eu/de/no-bird-flu (opens in a new tab)) and are intended to be widely distributed and used.