17 March 2023: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On 17 March 2023, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a poultry holding with approximately 60 animals, in the town of Ramløse in Gribskov municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
17 January 2023: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On 17 january 2023, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a poultry holding with approximately 15,000 turkeys, near the town of Bøgelunde in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
1 January 2023: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On 1 january 2023, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a poultry holding with 53,586 hens, near the town Ørum in Hedensted municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
22 December 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On December 22 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 36,600 turkeys, near the town Stokkemarke in Lolland municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
9 November 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1)
in a poultry holding
On November 9th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 33.600 turkeys, near the town Lundby in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
28 October 2022: detection of infection with Influenza A virus high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a hobby holding
On October 28th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a hobby holding with 113 chickens, ducks and peacocks, near Tandslet town in the municipality of Sønderborg.
The birds are defined as “other captive birds".
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
Previous news about Avian Influenza 2021-2022
13 September 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a German establishment near the Danish boarder
On September 13th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 was confirmed in a German holding with domestic birds, located in Germany less than 10 km from the Danish Boarder.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration established a surveillance zone, covering the parts of Denmark in a radius of 10 km from the German outbreak. The zone was lifted on October 15th 2022.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
22 July 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a German establishment near the Danish boarder
On July 20th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a German holding with geese, located in Germany less than 10 km from the Danish Boarder.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a surveillance zone, covering the parts of Denmark in a radius of 10 km from the German outbreak.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
29 March 2022: detection of infection with Influenza A virus high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a hobby holding
On March 29th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a hobby holding with 10 hens and 1 rooster, in Tranekær town in the municipality of Langeland.
The birds are defined as “other captive birds".
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
11 February 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On February 11th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a poultry holding with 800 hens, in Søtofte town in the municipality of Holbæk.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
15 January 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a hobby holding
On January 15th 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a hobby holding with 18 hens, in Søbjerg town in the municipality of Sorø.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
vSee the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
7 January 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza. A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a poultry holding
On January 7 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a poultry holding with approximately 100,000 laying hens, near the town Stoholm in Viborg municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
3 January 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza. A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On January 3 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 60,000 turkeys, near the town Ruds Vedby in Sorø municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
1 January 2022: Detection of infection with Influenza. A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On January 1 2022, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 36,000 turkeys, near the town Stokkemarke in Lolland municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
31 December 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza. A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On December 31 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a back yard poultry holding with approximately 40 hens, ducks and geese near the town Skaverup in Vordingborg municipality. The birds are defined as “poultry”.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
19 December 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza. A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a poultry holding
On December 19 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a game bird holding with approximately 6,000 birds mainly pheasants and ducks, near the town Løvel in Viborg Municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
24 November 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a backyard poultry holding
On November 24 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a back yard poultry holding of 2 hens, near the town Rude in Slagelse municipality. The birds are defined as "other captive birds".
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
See the current zones at: https://zoner.fvst.dk
03 November 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a backyard poultry holding
On November 3 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a back yard poultry holding of approximately 50 hens, ducks and geese near the town Boeslunde in Slagelse municipality. The birds are defined as "other captive birds".
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
01 November 2021: Requirements of compulsory housing of poultry in Denmark
Since September 2021 there has been more than 50 outbreaks of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in wild birds in Europe, including Denmark and our neighboring countries. Therefore, 1 November 2021 Denmark has issued a “housing order" so that poultry has to be fenced and under roof due to the increasing risk of HPAI with exceptions.
The compulsory housing order require all poultry and other captive birds to be housed indoors or confined under roof, net or wire to protect the poultry from contact with wild birds. The housing order applies to the whole country and to all categories of poultry and other captive birds with certain exemptions for animal welfare reasons.
Beside this, fairs, markets, shows or other gatherings of poultry or other captive birds are prohibited across the country.
01 November 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N1) in a turkey holding
On November 1 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 28,000 turkeys near the town Sønderupsønder in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding
22 October 2021: Detection of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in a wild birds in Denmark
Highly pathogenic influenza A virus H5N1 has been detected in wild birds in Denmark.
The detections were done in samples from eurasian wigeons and from a common teal originating from the Wadden Sea in the southwestern part of Denmark.
This is the first detections of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in wild birds in Denmark since May 2021.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has issued a press release urging the public to report findings of dead wild birds, and poultry owners to increase their focus on biosecurity and protection against wild birds.
12 August 2021: Freedom from HPAI
Denmark has regained its status as a country free from high pathogenicity avian influenza.
The Danish self-declaration of the recovery of country freedom from high pathogenicity avian influenza in accordance with the provisions of OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code have been published on the OIE website. The starting date of the self-declaration is 9 August 2021.
Read the Danish self-declaration from August 9 2021
09 August 2021: The last AI protection zone has been lifted
On August 9, 2021 the protection zone in Iller near Sønderborg was lifted. This means that there are no more AI zones in Denmark.
06 July 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a holding with laying hens
On July 5 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a poultry holding with approximately 38.000 laying hens in the town Iller in Sønderborg municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
15 June 2021: Freedom from HPAI
Denmark has regained its status as a country free from high pathogenicity avian influenza.
The Danish self-declaration of the recovery of country freedom from high pathogenicity avian influenza in accordance with the provisions of OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code have been published on the
OIE website.The starting date of the self-declaration is 10 June 2021.
Read the Danish self-declaration from June 10 2021
27 May 2021: The last AI protection zone has been lifted
On May 27 2021 the protection zone in Vinderup near Holsterbro was lifted. This means that there are no AI zones in Denmark.
21 April 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a holding with geese and ducks
On April 21 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a holding with approximately 9000 geese and 10000 ducks in the town Vinderup in Holstebro municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
21 March 2021: Declaration of an outbreak of Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N5) in a backyard poultry holding
On 21 March 2021 an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (subtype H5N5) was declared in a back yard poultry holding of 4 hens in the town Øm in the municipality Lejre in Zealand. The birds are defined as "other captive birds". No restriction zones will be established.
17 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a duck holding
On March 17 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a duck holding with 2.200 grey ducks in the town Illebølle in Langeland municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
17 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a turkey holding
On March 17 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 27.600 turkeys near the town Sønderupsønder in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
Previous news about Avian Influenza 2017 - 2021
16 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a turkey holding
On March 16 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 5.700 turkeys near the town Flakkebjerg in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
See zone legislation and zone map around Flakkebjerg in Slagelse municipality March 2021
12 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a backyard poultry holding
On March 12 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a backyard poultry holding near the town Hallenslev in Kalundborg municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding and the backyard poultry holding will be culled.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
See zone legislation and zone map around Hallenslev in Kalundborg municipality March 2021
11 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a turkey holding
On March 11 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 24.000 turkeys near the town Bøgelunde in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding and the turkey holding will be culled.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
See zone legislation and zone map around Bøgelunde in Slagelse municipality March 2021
6 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a turkey holding
On March 6 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a turkey holding with approximately 39.000 turkeys near the town Skælskør in Slagelse municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
See zone legislation and zone map around Skælskør in Slagelse municipality March 2021
4 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a backyard poultry holding
On March 4 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a backyard poultry holding with 10 chickens near the town Pedersker at the island of Bornholm.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
See zone legislation and zone map around Pedersker in Bornholm regional municipality March 2021
4 March 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in a gamebird holding
On March 4 2021, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a gamebird holding with approximately 1000 pheasants, 50 chickens and 2 peacocks near the town Kongsted in Ringsted municipality.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
See zone legislation and zone map around Kongsted in Ringsted municipality March 2021
25 February 2021: Detection of infection with Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in backyard poultry holding
On February 25rd 2021 an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a backyard poultry holding with 23 animals (20 chickens, and 3 ducks) near the town Østermarie at the island of Bornholm.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
Se zonebekendtgørelse og zonekort ved Østermarie i Bornholms Regionskommune februar 2021
6 February 2021: Declaration of an outbreak of Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in other captive birds
On February 6th 2021 an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (subtype H5N8) was declared in a holding at a youth club connected to a school in Valby in Copenhagen.
The holding consisted of 35 other captive birds. After culling of the animals, the carcasses have be disposed of by rendering and the premises have been cleaned and disinfected.
The birds are defined as "other captive birds". No restriction zones will be established.
1 January 2021: Detection of Infection with influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in game birds
On 1 January 2021 an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a holding consisting of game birds, in the town Løvel in the municipality of Viborg in Jutland.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
Se zonebekendtgørelse og zonekort i Løvel i Viborg Kommune januar 2021
9 December 2020: Detection of Infection with influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in birds other than poultry (captive birds)
Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a holding consisting of birds other than poultry (captive birds) in the town Jelling in the municipality of Vejle in Jutland.
The holding consists of approximately 700 animals and culling of the animals is initiated. The birds have not been used for the production of meat or eggs for consumption or for the production of other commercial products.
Suspicion of HPAI emerged on the basis of positive surveillance tests.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding.
There has been no trade of birds from the holding, neither to other EU countries nor any third countries.
You can find maps of the zone in the following Order (in Danish):
Zonebekendtgørelse og zonekort december 2020
20 November 2020: Restriction zones based on the recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in Denmark and Northern Germany
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established protection and surveillance zones of 3 and 10 km around the Danish case of HPAI and a surveillance zone at Danish territory around the holding in Northern Germany near the Danish border.
You can find maps of the zones in the following Orders (in Danish)
Zonebekendtgørelse og zonekort - Tustrup, Municipality of Randers november 2020
Zonebekendtgørelse og zonekort - Municipality of Tønder (Southern Jutland) november 2020
17 November 2020: Culling of animals at the poultry holding in Jutland infected with highly pathogenic influenza A virus
On 17 November the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has initiated and completed the culling of animals at the infected poultry holding near the town Tustrup near Randers, Jutland.
After culling of the animals, the carcasses have be disposed of by rendering and the premises have been cleaned and disinfected.
16 November 2020: Detection of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in a poultry holding in Jutland
Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 has been confirmed in a poultry holding near the town Tustrup in the municipality of Randers in Jutland.
The holding consists of approximately 25.000 animals that produce eggs to the slaughter chicken production.
The animals in the holding were tested as clinical suspects due to increased mortality in the holding.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established zones of 3 and 10 km around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures to prevent spread of infection from the affected holding. Within the 3 km zone there is one holding of game birds besides the infected poultry holding.
There has been no trade of poultry from the holding to other EU countries within the last 21 days.
9 November 2020: Detection of further cases of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in wild birds in Denmark
Highly pathogenic influenza A virus H5N8 has now been detected in 5 wild birds (4 barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis) and 1 black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)) found near Hoejer in the municipality of Toender in southern Jutland.
The avian influenza situation in wild birds can be followed on the Danish avian influenza database.
6 November 2020: Housing order for poultry and other captive birds
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has issued a "housing order" for poultry and other captive birds as a preventive measure against infection with highly pathogenic influenza A virus from wild birds.
In addition, a ban on gatherings (shows, markets, competitions etc.) of poultry and other captive birds has been issued.
Read the "Housing order", only in Danish
Read the ban on gatherings, only in Danish
6 November 2020: Detection of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in a wild bird in Denmark
A case of highly pathogenic influenza A virus H5N5 has been detected in a wild bird in Denmark.
The detection was done in a peregrine falcon (Falcon peregrinus) fund near Sakskøbing in the municipality of Guldborgsund on the island of Lolland.
The latest detection of highly pathogenic influenza A virus in a wild bird in Denmark was in January 2019.
5 November 2020: Rapid risk assessment on the overall risk for introduction of highly pathogenic influenza A virus into Danish poultry
Based on outbreaks of highly pathogenic influenza A virus H5N8 in poultry and wild birds in Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration estimates that the overall risk for the introduction of highly pathogenic influenza A virus into Danish poultry herds has increased. Therefore, the risk level changes from very low to high.
Because of the increased risk level, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration will issue a "housing order" for poultry and other captive birds as a preventive measure against infection with highly pathogenic influenza A virus from wild birds.
In addition, a ban on gatherings (shows, markets, competitions etc.) of poultry and other captive birds will be issued.
Read the full rapid risk assessment November 2020 (english summery on page 2)
19 May 2020: Rapid risk assessment on the overall risk for introduction of HPAI into Danish poultry
There have been no reports of outbreaks of HPAI in poultry in Poland and Germany since March 31, 2020. Furthermore, no cases of HPAI has been detected in wild birds in Europe since March 23, 2020.
Based on HPAI outbreak in a German turkey herd in March, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration initiated spot checks of cleaning and disinfection of turkey trucks. The results of the checks revealed no problems with the standard of cleaning and disinfection of the turkey trucks.
Overall assessment
Based on the above, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration estimates that the overall risk of infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza for Danish poultry herds now can be reduced from low to very low.
Read the full rapid risk assessment May 2020
26 February 2020: Lifting of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) restricted zone
The restricted zone of 1 km around the commercial poultry holding with organic laying hens, located near the town of Sæderup in the municipality of Aalborg in the Northern part of Jutland has today 26 February been lifted.
14 February, 2020: Rapid risk assessment on the overall risk for introduction of HPAI into Danish poultry
HPAI H5N8 has so far been confirmed in poultry in Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic, Ukraine and Germany. HPAI H5N8 has also been found in two wild birds in Poland and Germany.
The outbreaks of HPAI H5N8 in poultry could indicate HPAI virus circulating in the wild bird populations in central and eastern Europe.
The season for the import of pheasant chickens to Denmark, especially from Poland, starts in February and lasts until August. Since production of pheasants is an outdoor activity, there is an increased risk of undetected infection in imported pheasants.
Based on the above, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration estimates that the overall risk of infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza into Danish poultry herds has increased and therefore changes from very low to low.
To mitigate the increased risk, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration will provide targeted information to the game bird industry about risk of infection and biosecurity.
Read the full rapid risk assessment February 2020
30 January, 2020: Low-pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 confirmed in a commercial poultry holding in Denmark
In the evening 29 January, 2020, low-pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 was confirmed in a commercial poultry holding with organic laying hens, located near the town of Sæderup in the municipality of Aalborg in the Northern part of Jutland.
The holding consists of approximately 48.000 layers. Clinical signs have not been observed among the animals. The layer hens were tested in accordance with the Danish serological surveillance programme for avian influenza in poultry.
The hens at the infected holding will be killed and the carcasses will be disposed at a rendering facility.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a restricted zone of 1 km around the holding is implementing the necessary measures in accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
There are no other commercial poultry holdings within the established restricted 1 km zone around the infected holding.
1 October, free status, 2019
Denmark has regained its status as an avian influenza free country in accordance with the provisions of Article 10.4.3. of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code after the detection of low pathogenic avian influenza H5N2 in a holding with game birds on 28 June 2019.
The Danish self-declaration (October 2019) is published on the OIE homepage
23 July, 2019: Lifting of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) restricted zone
The restricted zone of 1 km around the mallard holding near the town Fuglebjerg in the municipality of Næstved on the island of Zealand has today 23 July been lifted. There are no more restricted zones left in Denmark.
28 June, 2019: Low-pathogenic avian influenza H5 confirmed in a commercial mallard holding in Denmark
On 28 June 2019, low pathogenic avian influenza H5 was confirmed in a commercial holding with mallards kept for breeding and hatchery near the town Fuglebjerg in the municipality of Næstved on the island of Zealand.
The holding comprises approximately 3,000 mallards (breeding animals and offspring) and approximately 5,300 hatching eggs. No clinical signs of avian influenza have been observed in the animals. The mallards were tested in accordance with the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza in game birds for restocking.
The mallards at the infected holding will be killed, and the carcasses will be disposed of by rendering.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a restriction zone of 1 km around the infected holding and is implementing the necessary measures in accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
There are no other commercial poultry holdings within the restriction zone around the infected holding.
8 April, 2019: Lifting of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) restricted zone
The restricted zone of 1 km around the mallard holding near the town Brenderup in the municipality of Middelfart on the island of Funen has today 26 March been lifted. There are no restricted zones left in Denmark.
26 March, 2019: Lifting of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) restricted zone
The restricted zone of 1 km around the poultry holding near the town terndrup in the municipality of Rebild in the Northern part of Jutland has today 26 March been lifted. There is still one restricted zone left in Denmark due to the outbreak of LPAI in mallards on the island of Funen on 14 March. This zone is expected to be lifted on 8 April 2019.
14 March, 2019: Low-pathogenic avian influenza H7 confirmed in a commercial poultry holding in Denmark
On 14 March 2019 low pathogenic avian influenza H7 was confirmed in a commercial poultry holding with mallards kept for breeding near the town Brenderup in the municipality of Middelfart on the island of Funen.
The holding consists of approximately 3.300 mallards (breeding animals). Clinical signs have not been observed among the animals. The mallards were tested in accordance with the Danish serological surveillance programme for avian influenza in game birds.
The mallards at the infected holding will be killed and the carcasses will be disposed at a rendering facility.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a restricted zone of 1 km around the holding is implementing the necessary measures in accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
There are no other commercial poultry holdings within the established restricted 1 km zone around the infected holding.
28 February, 2019: Low-pathogenic avian influenza H5 confirmed in a commercial poultry holding in Denmark
On 28 February, 2019, low-pathogenic avian influenza H5 was confirmed in a commercial poultry holding with organic laying hens, located near the town of Terndrup in the municipality of Rebild in the Northern part of Jutland.
The holding consists of approximately 7.000 layers. Clinical signs have not been observed among the animals. The layer hens were tested in accordance with the Danish serological surveillance programme for avian influenza in poultry.
The hens at the infected holding will be killed and the carcasses will be disposed at a rendering facility.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a restricted zone of 1 km around the holding is implementing the necessary measures in accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
There are no other commercial poultry holdings within the established restricted 1 km zone around the infected holding.
14th and 15th January, 2019: Detection of highly pathogenic H5N6 Avian Influenza in two wild birds in Denmark
On 14 January 2019 highly pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N6) was detected in a wild white-tailed eagle. The eagle was found dead near the city Kalby, municipality of Næstved on the southern part of Zealand. It is the first wild bird found positive of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza since september 2018. On 15 January Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N6) was also detected in a common buzzard. The buzzard was found dead in Rørvig in the municipality of Odsherred on the northern part of Zealand.
The bird was tested at the National Veterinary Institute in accordance with the specified procedures in the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza by routine sampling of dead wild birds.
There have been no outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry in Denmark since an outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza on 26 June 2018. In connection with this outbreak, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration implemented the control measures in accordance with the European Union's Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
According to point 8 of Article 10.4.1 in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code “infection with influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry, including wild birds, should be notified in accordance with Article 1.1.3. However, a Member Country should not impose bans on the trade in poultry and poultry-commodities in response to such a notification, or other information on the presence of any influenza A virus in birds other than poultry, including wild birds". Therefore Denmark is still considered as a country free of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
28 September, free status, 2018
Denmark has regained its status as an avian influenza free country in accordance with the provisions of Article 10.4.3. of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code after the detection of low pathogenic avian influenza H5N2 in a holding with game birds on 26 June 2018.
The Danish self-declaration (September 2018) is published on the OIE homepage
August-September, 2018: Detection of highly pathogenic H5N6 Avian Influenza in wild birds in Denmark
Highly pathogenic Avian influenza ( H5N6) has been detected in several wild birds located to the sea-area, "Smålandsfarvandet", between southern Zealand and Lolland-Falster. The situation can be followed here.
The birds were tested at the National Veterinary Institute in accordance with the specified procedures in the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza by routine sampling of dead wild birds.The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration continues to monitoring the situation closly, and local poultry owners are advised to shield their poultry from contact with wild bird to enhance biosecurity.
There have been no outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry in Denmark since an outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza on 26 June 2018. In connection with this outbreak, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration implemented the control measures in accordance with the European Union's Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
According to point 8 of Article 10.4.1 in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code “infection with influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry, including wild birds, should be notified in accordance with Article 1.1.3. However, a Member Country should not impose bans on the trade in poultry and poultry-commodities in response to such a notification, or other information on the presence of any influenza A virus in birds other than poultry, including wild birds". Therefore Denmark is still considered as a country free of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
15th August, 2018: detection of highly pathogenic H5N6 Avian Influenza in a wild bird in Denmark
Highly pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N6) was detected in a wild Mute Swan. The swan was found dead among 3 other dead swans at a beach near the ciyt Korsør, municipality og Slagelse. It is the 2nd bird found positive og High Pathogenic Avian Influenza during this summer. Finding positive wild birds is unusual at this time of year, as it is typically found in migratory birds.
The bird was tested at the National Veterinary Institute in accordance with the specified procedures in the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza by routine sampling of dead wild birds.
There have been no outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry in Denmark since an outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza on 26 June 2018. In connection with this outbreak, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration implemented the control measures in accordance with the European Union's Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
According to point 8 of Article 10.4.1 in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code “infection with influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry, including wild birds, should be notified in accordance with Article 1.1.3. However, a Member Country should not impose bans on the trade in poultry and poultry-commodities in response to such a notification, or other information on the presence of any influenza A virus in birds other than poultry, including wild birds". Therefore Denmark is still considered as a country free of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
16th July, 2018: Detection of highly pathogenic H5N6 in a wild bird in Denmark
A detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6 was done in one wild bird (Common eider). It was found dead on a small island in the municipality of Lolland. The bird was found among several other dead wild birds of diffrent species, but mostly eiders. The bird was tested at the National Veterinary Institute in accordance with the specified procedures in the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza by routine sampling of dead wild birds.
There have been no outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry in Denmark since an outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza on 26 June 2016. In connection with this outbreak, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration implemented the control measures in accordance with the European Union's Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
According to point 8 of Article 10.4.1 in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code “infection with influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry, including wild birds, should be notified in accordance with Article 1.1.3. However, a Member Country should not impose bans on the trade in poultry and poultry-commodities in response to such a notification, or other information on the presence of any influenza A virus in birds other than poultry, including wild birds". Therefore Denmark is still considered as a country free of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
27 June, 2018: Low-pathogenic avian influenza detected in a mallard holding in Denmark
On 26 June a detection of low pathogenic avian influenza H5N2 has been done in a holding with game birds – mallard ducklings near the town Faksinge in the municipality of Vordingborg in the southern part of Zealand.
The population of the holding consists of approximately 2.700 ducklings.
There have not been clinical signs of disease among the animals. The ducklings were tested in accordance with the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza in poultry by routine sampling of tracheal and cloacal swabs.
Following an investigation of tracheal and cloacal swabs, low pathogenic H5 was detected in cloacal swabs by PCR followed by sequencing at the National Veterinary Institute the 5 May 2018.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a restricted zone of 1 km around the holding and has implemented the necessary measures in accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
The restricted zone of 1 km around the duck holding near the town Vinderup in the municipality of Holstebro in the western part of Jutland has today 1 June been lifted. This means that there are no more zones in Denmark due to detection of avian influenza.
1 June, 2018: Lifting of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) restricted zone
The restricted zone of 1 km around the duck holding near the town Vinderup in the municipality of Holstebro in the western part of Jutland has today 1 June been lifted. This means that there are no more zones in Denmark due to detection of avian influenza.
7 May, 2018: Low-pathogenic avian influenza detected in a duck holding in Denmark
On 5 May a detection of low pathogenic avian influenza H5 has been done in a holding with ducks near the town Vinderup in the municipality of Holstebro in the western part of Jutland.
The population of the holding consists of approximately 9.000 ducks and 12.000 ducklings.
There have not been clinical signs of disease among the animals. The ducks were tested in accordance with the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza in poultry by routine sampling of blood samples.
Following an investigation of tracheal and cloacal swabs, low pathogenic H5 was detected in cloacal swabs by PCR followed by sequencing at the National Veterinary Institute the 5 May 2018.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a restricted zone of 1 km around the holding and has implemented the necessary measures in accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
The birds at the infected holding will be killed and destroyed. There has not been any export of neither live birds nor poultry products from the establishment.
There are no other commercial poultry holdings within the restricted zone 1 km around the infected holding.
25 April, 2018: Status on findings of highly pathogenic H5N6 in wild birds in Denmark
The National Veterinary Institute has confirmed further finding of wild birds infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6. The total amount of findings are 26 wild birds.
Mainly Sea Eagles and common buzzards have been infected, but the infection has also been observed in other birds including hooded crows, gulls, swans and great cormorant. The findings have been made in Northern Jutland, Zealand, Lolland, Bornholm, Fyn and Als.
11 April, 2018: Status on findings of highly pathogenic H5N6 in wild birds in Denmark
The National Veterinary Institute has confirmed further finding of wild birds infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6. The total amount of findings are 13 wild birds.
Mainly Sea Eagles have been infected, but the infection has also been observed in other birds including hooded crow, gulls, swan and common buzzard. The findings have been made in Northern Jutland, Zealand and Lolland.
23 March, 2018: Detection of highly pathogenic H5N6 in four wild birds in Denmark
A detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6 was done in four wild birds (White-tailed sea eagles). Two birds was found in the Northern part of Jutland (Hurup and Hjardemaal), one bird was found on Zealand (Naestved) and one birds was found on Lolland (Maribo). The findings were tested at the National Veterinary Institute in accordance with the specified procedures in the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza by routine sampling of dead wild birds.
There have been no outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry in Denmark since an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza on 21 November 2016. In connection with this outbreak, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration implemented the control measures in accordance with the European Union's Council Directive 2005/94/EC.
According to point 8 of Article 10.4.1 in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code “infection with influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry, including wild birds, should be notified in accordance with Article 1.1.3. However, a Member Country should not impose bans on the trade in poultry and poultry-commodities in response to such a notification, or other information on the presence of any influenza A virus in birds other than poultry, including wild birds". Therefore Denmark is still considered an avian influenza free country.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
2 March, 2018: Detection of highly pathogenic H5N8 in a wild bird in Denmark
A detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6 was done in a wild bird (White-tailed Sea Eagle) in the municipality of Slagelse on Zealand, Denmark.
There are no reports of other affected birds in the area. The finding was tested at the National Veterinary Institute in accordance with the specified procedures in the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza by routine sampling of tracheal and cloacal swabs.
According to point 8 of Article 10.4.1 in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code “infection with influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry, including wild birds, should be notified in accordance with Article 1.1.3. However, a Member Country should not impose bans on the trade in poultry and poultry-commodities in response to such a notification, or other information on the presence of any influenza A virus in birds other than poultry, including wild birds.”
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
11 April, 2017: Lifting of restrictions in relation to HPAI H5N8
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has decided to lift the restrictions imposed in November 2016 in relation to containment of poultry indoor or in runs covered by solid roof and in relation to exhibitions, gatherings and shows of poultry and other captive birds as of Wednesday 12 April 2017.
The decision is based on a risk assessment which conclude that the number of HPAI H5N8 positive wild birds have reduced within the last weeks to a level where it is acceptable to lift the provisions on containment of poultry.
Rules about biosecurity measures as feeding and watering under roof and separation between domestic ducks and geese from other poultry are always in force.
22 February, 2017: Denmark has regained its status as an avian influenza free country
Denmark has regained its status as an avian influenza free country according to the requirements of article 10.4.3 of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code after the detection of HPAI (H5N8) in a backyard poultry flock on 21 November 2016.
A final report on the outbreak is available under "Booklets/Reports". The report contains a description of the control measures applied including stamping out, cleaning and disinfection, establishment of protection and surveillance zones, screening in zones and the Danish surveillance programmes for avian influenza in poultry, other captive birds and wild birds.
7 February, 2017: Detection of Infection with influenza A virus of high pathogenicity (H5N8) in birds other than poultry
Infection with influenza A virus of high pathogenicity in birds other than poultry has been confirmed in an open air museum in Maribo, in the municipality of Lolland on the Island Lolland. The birds (3 geese, 4 hens and a cock) have been killed today. The birds were only kept for exhibition and they have not been used for the production of meat or eggs for consumption or for the production of other commercial products. No zones will be established.
Read more on other websites
OIE Update on highly pathogenic avian influenza in animals
FAO Website about avian influenza
WHO Website about avian influenza
Booklets/Reports
The report "Final report on the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 in a backyard poultry flock in Denmark, November 2016" provides a detailed description of the control measures applied including stamping out, cleaning and disinfection, establishment of protection and surveillance zones, screening in zones and the Danish surveillance programmes for avian influenza in poultry, other captive birds and wild birds.
Read the report "Final report on the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 in a backyard poultry flock in Denmark, November 2016.pdf"
The report “Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 in Denmark, Spring 2006” provides a comprehensive description of the avian influenza epidemic in wild birds in Denmark and in the Baltic area in the spring of 2006. The report covers the epidemiology of the disease including a description of the outbreak in a Danish backyard poultry holding with 102 animals and the disease control measures applied. A description of the Danish avian influenza surveillance of wild birds and of poultry and game birds in 2006 and the results hereof is presented.
Read the report “Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 in Denmark, Spring 2006”
