Beginning Thursday, Austrian authorities have enacted mandatory housing requirements for poultry in regions identified as high-risk for avian influenza. This decision follows the recent detection of the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of bird flu at a poultry facility in Steyr, Upper Austria, where approximately 700 geese tested positive for the virus. A similar case was previously identified in Burgenland earlier in the week.

According to the Austrian Ministry of Health, all poultry and captive birds within these designated high-risk zones must now be kept continuously in enclosed facilities or housing units that are thoroughly covered, at a minimum from above. This measure aims to reduce the risk of transmission from wild birds to domestic flocks.

The ministry has emphasized that, based on current scientific understanding, the H5N1 avian influenza poses no direct danger to humans in Austria. Nonetheless, strict biosecurity protocols have been implemented to prevent any further outbreaks among commercial and private poultry populations.

Recent Developments in Avian Influenza Cases

Prior to the two recent outbreaks in commercial poultry holdings, confirmed cases of H5N1 were reported exclusively among wild birds in Austria since late September 2025. Affected regions include Carinthia (district of Feldkirchen), Lower Austria (districts of Gmünd, Horn, and Amstetten), Upper Austria (district of Linz-Land), and most recently, Styria (Hartberg/Fürstenfeld area). Swans have been among the most frequently affected wild bird species.

Veterinary authorities have increased surveillance in these areas, monitoring both wild and domestic bird populations for signs of infection. The rapid identification of cases and implementation of movement restrictions are intended to contain and eradicate the virus at its source.

Protective Measures for Poultry Farmers

Poultry farmers and bird owners in the high-risk zones are required to adhere to the updated containment guidelines. These include keeping birds indoors or in covered enclosures, restricting access to poultry facilities, and implementing rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols. The Ministry of Health has also advised regular monitoring for symptoms of avian influenza, such as sudden death, reduced egg production, and respiratory distress in birds.

In addition to containment requirements, the government has provided information resources and support for affected farmers. Compensation schemes are in place for those whose flocks must be culled as a precautionary measure, ensuring that the economic impact of these interventions is mitigated as much as possible.

Ongoing Monitoring and Public Health Considerations

Health officials continue to stress that avian influenza remains primarily an animal health concern. There is no evidence to suggest a significant risk to the general public from the current outbreaks. However, authorities remain vigilant and are closely monitoring for any changes in the virus that might affect human health.

The current spread of H5N1 in Austria reflects a broader trend seen across Europe, where cases among wild and domestic birds have prompted similar containment measures in several countries. Cross-border cooperation and timely information sharing remain essential components of the international response to avian influenza outbreaks.

The Ministry of Health encourages all poultry keepers to remain informed about the latest regulatory updates and to maintain high standards of biosecurity. Further information on protective measures and affected areas is available through official government channels.