Opinion: We know how to prevent bird flu. So why aren’t we?

Back to news list

Source: STAT News

Original: https://www.statnews.com/2026/01/14/avian-flu-h5n1-egg-prices-birds-virus-usda-v...

Published: Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Lower egg prices dampened public debate about bird flu. The virus is expected to devastate farms this winter.[1] The State Veterinary and Food Administration recommends preventing direct and indirect contact of wild birds, especially waterfowl, with poultry.[1][2] Poultry should only be purchased from registered farms and fed indoors or under shelter to prevent contact with wild bird feed and water.[1][2][6] Keepers must ensure minimal contact between farmed birds and wild animals, protect water and feed from contamination, and maintain hygiene such as hand washing.[1][2][7] Almost 5 million poultry were affected in outbreaks in the EU.[4] Symptoms include a change in the behavior of the poultry, a decrease in laying and feed or water intake; in case of suspicion, contact the regional veterinary administration.[3][4] Na Slovensku boli potvrdené prípady v obciach Šúrovce, Veľká Mača a v oblasti Oravskej priehrady.[2]