Europe’s Bird Flu Spike: France And Germany On 'High' Alert After Fresh Outbreaks, Is India At Risk?

The Dutch agricultural industry has recently confirmed a bird flu outbreak in a poultry farm that led to the culling of 71,000 birds and an order to keep birds indoors. India often faces a persistent threat of its own variant of bird flu all the time. So, is India at risk? Read On…

Deadly Bird Flu Virus Hits Europe: France And Germany On High Alert After Fresh Outbreak, Is India At Risk?

France and Germany are grappling with new outbreaks of the zoonotic disease called bird flu or avian influenza caused by influenza A viruses. Authorities are prompted to enforce bio-security and monitoring measures to take cognizant of the current situation in two of Europe’s major countries after citizens came into contact with infected birds and other animals.

According to officials, the outbreak is among the wild birds, commercial poultry farms and backyard flocks. Other European countries have also taken steps to address the ongoing health risks associated with the multiple outbreaks, which pose a threat of spreading to neighbouring countries. The Dutch agricultural industry has recently confirmed a bird flu outbreak in a poultry farm that led to the culling of 71,000 birds and an order to keep birds indoors.

What Is Bird Flu?

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is an infectious disease spread by influenza A viruses. A person can contract this zoonotic disease when they come in contact with the mucous, saliva or poop of an infected bird or animal.

As of now, there is no evidence of person-to-person spread, but the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that limited person-to-person spread may occur. This means that the virus can be spread to one or two people, but does not continue to spread.

Symptoms Of Bird Flu

It is crucial to remember that signs of bird flu could differ from person-to-person ranging from mild to severe. Here are some of the classic bird flu symptoms you must be aware of and take necessary action if you notice any of the following signs:

Eye redness or irritation
Mild fever
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue
High fever
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Altered consciousness.
Seizures

Is India At Risk Of European Bird Flu?

India often faces a persistent threat of its own variant of bird flu all the time. According to reports, in 2025 itself, India recorded a variant of avian influenza outbreak in 10 states that affected wild animals and domestic poultry.

Interestingly, a 2021 action plan outlines the government’s active plans to detect and cull infected birds strongly protects the nation from threats like the European bird flu. However, it is still important to take precautions, even when you’re not in the area where bird flu has spread.

How To Stay Safe From Bird Flu?

The best way to stay safe from bird flu is by maintaining strict social distancing from birds and animals, followed by washing your hands with soap and water, especially after bird handling or farm visits. Staying away from raw and uncooked foods can also prevent you from contracting the bird flu. Otherwise, if you enjoy indulging in poultry meats, ensure to cook them thoroughly so that you can eliminate the lurking viruses.

Lastly, avoid touching raw milk products from animals, including surfaces or materials contaminated by the saliva, mucous, or animal faeces of infected animals, as a way to protect yourself.

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