An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been identified in the Var region; the virus was found in a dead wild animal.

While avian influenza is wreaking havoc in France among birds in the middle of their migration period, a first case of avian flu has been detected in the Var region on a wild common crane.

The animal was found dead in the town of Hyères . According to the Var prefecture, it was carrying the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus .

An area of ​​infection between Hyères and Carqueiranne

"The Prefect of Var has issued an order aimed at preventing the appearance of avian influenza in farms and backyard poultry. A wild fauna infection zone has been defined and includes the municipalities of Hyères and Carqueiranne," the Prefecture indicated in a press release.

He added: "Any death of wild birds in this area, without an obvious cause, must be reported to the town hall or to the French Office for Biodiversity at 04 94 68 76 59."

Multiple outbreaks in France and Europe

The recent detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in common cranes in Germany and then in France, accompanied by significant mortality and spread to nearby farms, raises fears of a "massive introduction (...) probably underway" , according to the latest weekly report.

In Europe between the beginning of August and October 26, 85 outbreaks were detected in poultry farms (including 28 in the last week alone), 18 among captive birds (including backyard flocks) and 351 among wild birds (including 93 in the last week with 50 in Germany alone).

Risks to humans

“Bird flu can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals. Therefore, in the event of direct exposure to these animals, it is advisable to monitor one's health for 10 days after exposure. If symptoms occur during this period (fatigue, fever, body aches, headache, runny nose, cough, red eyes, difficulty breathing, disorientation, dizziness, etc.), the person should consult a doctor immediately, mentioning the potential exposure,” concludes the Var prefecture.