Situation in Tyrol

Avian flu: no rapid easing in sight

Following several outbreaks of highly contagious avian influenza in Lower Austria, special precautionary measures have been in place in Austria for the past two weeks. Although there are no suspected cases in Tyrol so far, the danger has not been averted according to the provincial veterinary office.

On November 8, the whole of Austria was declared an area with an increased to very increased risk of avian influenza. Following several outbreaks of bird flu in large poultry farms in Lower Austria, precautionary measures were also issued for poultry farmers in Tyrol.

The key objective: pets must be protected from contact with wild birds such as ducks or swans.

Every dead wild bird is examined
"Fortunately, there have not yet been any suspected cases in Tyrol," explains Matthias Vill, the provincial veterinary director, when asked by the Krone newspaper. Every dead wild bird is examined. There are repeated reports.

The virus survives very well in the cold for 20 to 30 days.

Matthias Vill, Landesveterinärdirektor

Vill: "All samples have been negative so far." The state veterinary director warns against attacking dead waterfowl, but calls on people to inform the district authorities.

Songbirds are exempt from the reporting requirement. Transmission via them is considered unlikely. However, waterfowl are ideal carriers. Vill does not expect the situation to ease until March. "The virus survives very well in the cold for 20 to 30 days," he explains his forecast.