A new case of an animal contaminated with the highly pathogenic H5N8 virus was detected on a Wangenies breeding farm in the town of Fleurus, the Federal Agency for Safety of the Food Chain (AFSCA) said on Monday. The organisation asks any person who has recently purchased poultry in the market to be vigilant.
A three-kilometer buffer zone has been established around livestock affected by avian influenza. It will remain in effect for at least three weeks. The movement of birds has been banned and strict containment measures have been put in place.
"I am aware of the difficulties that this situation entails for all livestock breeders in restricted areas, but I encourage bird farmers to continue to abide by all the measures necessary to ensure animal health in our country", said Federal Agriculture Minister, Willy Borsus (RM).
The Brussels Times
