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On Thursday 12 November 2026, Luxembourg's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture announced the reappearance of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) in neighbouring Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and France.
Since the beginning of the autumn migration of wild birds in 2026, no cases of avian influenza have been detected in Luxembourg, either in poultry farms or among wild birds.
In response, the Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA) has reviewed the situation and reminded poultry keepers that biosecurity measures remain in effect throughout the Grand Duchy.
Faced with the risk of transmission of the virus from wild birds to domestic poultry, ALVA has reiterated the importance of preventive measures.
The following preventive measures remain fully in effect:
• feeding and watering must take place indoors or in a way that prevents contact with wild birds;
• ALVA recommends protecting outdoor enclosures with netting or other appropriate devices. Where such protection is not possible, poultry should be kept indoors;
• biosecurity rules must be strictly observed;
• any unusual poultry mortality, symptoms suggestive of bird flu or changes in production parameters (e.g. reduced feed and/or water consumption, decreased egg production, abnormal mortality) must be reported to a veterinarian.
Any importation of poultry must be accompanied by a health certificate (TRACES) issued by an official veterinarian in the country of origin. This requirement also applies to poultry purchased at markets.
ALVA recalled that avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease affecting almost all bird species. The severity of the disease varies from animal to animal and depends on the viral strain, the environment and any other infections. Contamination can occur through direct contact with sick animals or through exposure to contaminated material. Mammals may become infected in exceptional cases, such as when they eat the carcass of an infected bird or come into close contact with the virus. Contamination in humans is rare.
ALVA stressed that avian influenza does not pose a public health risk through the consumption of eggs or poultry meat.
ALVA is closely monitoring the situation and may introduce additional measures at any time. Poultry keepers are also required to register their premises with the administration.
Anyone who finds a dead or sick wild waterbird, such as a goose, duck or swan, or a bird of prey, should report it to ALVA by tel: 247 82539 or by email at info@alva.etat.lu.
