Avian Influenza Outbreak – Gironde, November 2025

Avian Influenza Outbreak in France: Crane Deaths and Heightened Vigilance

A surge in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases is prompting increased concern among public health officials and poultry stakeholders across France.Confirmed infections in wild crane populations, coupled with a recent outbreak at a hunting facility, signal ongoing viral circulation and necessitate strict preventative measures.

The first signs of the current outbreak emerged approximately two weeks ago in the gironde region of France, with the finding of four crane corpses testing positive for HPAI. Last week, a fifth infected crane was identified in the southern part of the department, confirming the virus remains active. This widespread infection among common cranes is being observed nationally, raising alarms about potential transmission to domestic birds.

Did you know? – HPAI, or highly pathogenic avian influenza, is a severe form of the flu in birds. It can spread rapidly and cause high mortality rates. The current outbreak highlights the risk of transmission from wild birds to domestic poultry.

Outbreak Confirmed at Hunting Facility

on November 7, authorities confirmed an HPAI outbreak at a hunting decoy holder’s location in the Médoc area. Despite the region having very low poultry farming activity, swift management measures are being implemented to mitigate the risk of further spread. “These measures are designed to quickly contain the virus and prevent it from reaching commercial poultry operations,” a senior official stated.

The virus’s prevalence in wildlife poses a notable threat to both captive birds and commercial poultry. Authorities are urging all concerned parties to exercise extreme vigilance and adhere to enhanced biosecurity measures. Breeding professionals and keepers of captive birds are specifically instructed to ensure strict compliance with protocols tailored to their operations.

Pro tip: – Biosecurity measures are key to preventing the spread of avian influenza. This includes limiting contact with wild birds, disinfecting equipment, and controlling access to poultry areas. Strict adherence is crucial.

Public Health Guidance

Given the high circulation of HPAI in wild bird populations, public health officials are issuing the following guidance:

• Avoid contact with wild birds, including their feathers and droppings.
• Do not collect wild birds, even if they appear weakened or injured.
• Do not transport sick or injured wild birds to veterinary offices.
• Do not touch or approach dead birds.
• report instances of significant bird mortality to the local town hall.

Town halls will then notify the SAGIR network – the national monitoring system for wildlife mortality – which will collaborate with the departmental population protection directorate (DDPP) to determine appropriate action.

No Risk to Consumers

Despite the ongoing outbreak, authorities emphasize that the consumption of poultry products – including meat, foie gras, and eggs – poses no risk to public health. “There is absolutely no danger to consumers from eating properly prepared poultry products,” one analyst noted.

The situation remains fluid, and continued monitoring of wild bird populations and adherence to biosecurity protocols are crucial to minimizing the impact of this avian influenza outbreak.

Reader question: – What specific biosecurity measures are most effective in preventing the spread of avian influenza on a small farm or backyard setting? Share your thoughts in the comments.