Netherlands orders poultry to be kept indoors amid bird flu outbreaks

The Netherlands has introduced a nationwide requirement to keep domestic poultry indoors following new outbreaks of avian influenza. Since October 28, 2026, commercial poultry farms have been required to house birds inside buildings to prevent contact with potentially infected wild birds. The decision followed three outbreaks of the disease within several days, according to The Independent.

The first outbreak was detected on October 26 in Lutjegast, Groningen province. The following day, the virus was identified in Middelie, North Holland province, while another outbreak was reported in Grootegast on October 28. Dutch authorities assess the risk of further transmission as high, particularly due to the seasonal migration of wild birds.

Dutch State Secretary for Agriculture Silvio Erkens said the new measures aim to prevent further infections and reduce losses in the poultry industry. The restrictions will particularly affect farms that use free-range production systems. However, certain poultry species and small private holdings may keep birds in protected enclosures instead of fully enclosed buildings.

In addition to mandatory indoor housing, the country has tightened biosecurity requirements. Poultry exhibitions and other events involving the display of birds have been banned, while access to poultry facilities has been restricted. Farm visits are permitted only when necessary and subject to established sanitary requirements.

Dutch authorities are also developing a plan for mandatory vaccination of laying hens against avian influenza. The proposals are expected to be presented to parliament by the end of 2026. Stronger preventive measures are intended to reduce the risk of further outbreaks and the associated economic losses in the poultry sector.

Tags: Netherlands, poultry feed sector