Updated: 10 November 2025 · Source: Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) & Canton of Vaud

Poultry Biosecurity Animal health In brief.
Avian influenza is a highly contagious epizootic disease of birds. Heightened vigilance is in force in Switzerland; cantonal measures may be added depending on the local situation.

National measures (FSVO)

  • Limit contact between domestic poultry and wild birds: covered aviaries (netting with mesh < 4 cm) or indoor housing.
  • Set up a hygiene barrier: dedicated footwear or overboots, hand-washing and disinfection, and equipment kept solely for the flock.
  • Feed and water kept out of reach of wild birds.
  • Daily monitoring: a drop in laying, unusual deaths, breathing difficulties → report immediately to your vet and the cantonal service.
  • Traceability: a register of animals coming in and going out, and of visits and procedures.

Additional measures for the Canton of Vaud

  • Possible activation of observation zones around cases in wild birds: confinement or a covered aviary made compulsory.
  • Strict separation of susceptible species (geese/ducks/ostriches vs. galliformes).
  • Restricted access to buildings; dedicated work clothing and cleaning of vehicles on entry.
  • Registration of non-commercial holdings (backyard flocks) as directed by the cantonal vet.
General public.
Do not touch dead or sick wild birds; report them to the authorities (game warden/local council). Swiss poultry products remain safe as long as hygiene and cooking are observed. Practical rule: “see → act”.
Any rise in deaths or respiratory sign in a flock means isolating the birds, contacting the vet and avoiding any movement of animals or equipment.

What to do now?

  1. Check that your holding is registered with the cantonal service.
  2. Apply the biosecurity measures above and train family and staff.
  3. Prepare an isolation plan and the useful numbers (vet, cantonal vet, game warden).
  4. Follow the official communications and adjust your practices if zones are set up.

Official references

  • FSVO – Avian influenza: blv.admin.ch
  • Canton of Vaud – Cantonal information and measures: vd.ch
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