Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 25, Avian influenza has returned strongly across Europe this autumn, with outbreaks reported in multiple countries and authorities reinstating poultry confinement measures to limit further spread.

Germany has recorded the highest number of cases, confirming 66 outbreaks since the beginning of the season, nearly doubling in the final week of October alone. The Netherlands reported eight outbreaks within a single month. Belgium confirmed three cases since late October, including two at commercial poultry farms.

In the United Kingdom, 12 outbreaks occurred at commercial farms during the last week of October. Ireland introduced a nationwide housing order after detecting the virus at a turkey farm. France implemented similar confinement requirements following several farm outbreaks and significant mortality among wild cranes.

October typically represents a peak-risk period for avian influenza transmission, as migratory wild birds move southward and can carry the virus over long distances. This seasonal pattern has contributed to the rapid re-emergence observed across the continent in 2025.

The current wave has prompted heightened vigilance among European veterinary authorities. Last month, Germany formally highlighted the situation at a European-level meeting, noting that enhanced biosecurity measures on farms may need to be supplemented by additional containment strategies to manage the ongoing spread effectively.

The resurgence underscores the continuing challenge of controlling highly pathogenic avian influenza in densely populated poultry regions, particularly during periods of intensified wild bird migration.