France raises bird flu risk level following new outbreaks

On October 15, 2025, the French Ministry of Agriculture announced an increase in the risk level of highly pathogenic avian influenza (IAHP) from "negligible" to "moderate" for the entire continental part of the country. The decision comes following a rise in cases among wild migratory birds in Europe – particularly in Spain, Germany, and France. In France, two new outbreaks have been confirmed – on October 10 in Pas-de-Calais (a pheasant and partridge farm) and on October 14 in Seine-Maritime (a home farm). Due to the increased risk, stricter biosecurity measures come into effect: In high-risk areas, gatherings of birds are prohibited and the sheltering of all types of domestic birds is required. In areas with lower but real risk – sheltering of young ducks under 42 days old and control during the transportation of birds. These measures complement the mandatory vaccination of ducks on farms with over 250 birds, introduced since 2023. According to authorities, vaccination has ...