Avian influenza circulating among wild birds again



Avian influenza is circulating again among wild birds in the Netherlands. In November, the virus was detected in birds in the provinces of Gelderland, Friesland, Groningen, and Utrecht.

No new cases of avian influenza were found in wild birds in September and October. In November, the avian influenza virus was found in several bird species across the country, see Table 1.

This virus is a new H5N1 variant (see the WBVR report: New avian influenza virus variant in Renswoude).

Bird speciesProvince found
Barnacle GooseFriesland
Black-backed GullGelderland
Common BuzzardFriesland
Eurasian WigeonUtrecht
Goose spp.Groningen
Greylag GooseFriesland
Table 1: List of positive H5N1 cases in wild birds in the first half of November 2023

The DWHC advises the public to be cautious when approaching dead wild birds, to adhere to hygiene measures, and to report dead animals. Reporting is possible via the DWHC or Sovon websites.