Immediate nationwide confinement order for poultry after three outbreaks of avian influenza

Recent outbreaks of avian influenza have been reported in Lutjegast, Grootegast, and Middelie, prompting new measures for poultry farmers. The government has implemented a housing and shielding obligation to protect birds from infection. These measures aim to minimize suffering for both animals and farmers. The housing requirement applies only to commercially kept birds, while pheasants and waterfowl are exempt, requiring only shielding. Hobby farmers are also only required to shield their birds.