Spain and Portugal have experienced a relatively mild avian influenza season in commercial poultry, but authorities stress the need for ongoing biosecurity and vigilance.
Current Situation of Avian Influenza
According to Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture, only 16 cases of avian influenza have been reported in commercial poultry since July 2025. The last confirmed case occurred on January 13 in the province of León. In Portugal, the situation is similarly controlled, with just 11 cases reported in commercially kept poultry during the same time frame. These figures stand in stark contrast to countries such as France and Italy, which reported 121 and 66 cases, respectively, by the end of March.
Spain Lifts Housing Order
On April 3, Spanish Minister Luis Planas announced the lifting of the housing order for poultry nationwide, with the exception of 1,200 municipalities in high-risk areas. This national housing order was initially imposed on November 13 of the previous year.
Minister Planas stated, “Since that date, we have conducted weekly monitoring of the epidemiological situation. Now, considering the disease’s evolution in Spain and the regions from which migratory birds originate, as well as the anticipated temperatures, the Ministry has deemed it appropriate to lift the general confinement across the national territory.”
Conversely, Portugal’s authorities have yet to lift their housing order, which mandates the confinement of all poultry on the mainland.
Importance of Biosecurity Measures
Despite easing restrictions, Spanish authorities emphasize the continued necessity for robust biosecurity protocols on poultry farms. Measures should aim to prevent interactions with wild birds and enhance passive surveillance amongst both domestic and wild species. Any suspected cases must be reported immediately to veterinary services, particularly when dealing with domestic birds. Farmers are also advised to limit unnecessary contact with birds displaying clinical symptoms or those found dead in the field.
