Recently, we have confirmed numerous new cases of avian influenza in wild birds in Austria, but also in individual poultry farms. Therefore, an easing of the situation cannot be expected in the near future. In order to minimize the risk of further transmissions to poultry flocks, the "areas with a high risk of avian influenza" in Austria will be extended as of 27 January 2023. A map showing the affected regions and detailed information on the measures are available on the Ministry of Health's website at https://www.verbrauchergesundheit.gv.at/tiere/krankheiten/ai.html.

In those regions designated as "areas with a high risk of avian influenza" under the Avian Influenza Ordinance, poultry must be kept indoors or at least under cover until further notice. This compulsory housing applies to all farms and hobby farms that keep 50 or more animals. Poultry farms with less than 50 animals are exempt from the obligation to keep poultry indoors, provided that ducks and geese are kept separately from other poultry and it is ensured that poultry is protected from contact with wild birds (nets, roofs) and that feeding and watering of the animals only takes place indoors or under a shelter.

In the rest of the country, poultry farmers remain required to follow biosecurity measures to protect both their own and neighboring animals: Direct and indirect contacts between poultry and wild birds should be prevented at all costs, e.g., feeding indoors, not using surface water for watering, etc. In case of unclear health problems on poultry farms, a veterinary examination should be carried out without fail. Wild waterfowl and birds of prey found dead must be reported to the locally competent district administrative authority (official veterinarian).