Moderate risk level takes effect with additional prevention measures and rules affecting waterfowl hunting
France raised its highly pathogenic avian influenza risk level from “negligible” to “moderate” across metropolitan France from 5 November 2026, following an increase in cases recorded in wild birds in several neighbouring countries.
The decision reflects the spread of infection along migration routes and the possibility of the virus being carried by migratory birds passing through France. The order was issued on 2 November and published in the Official Journal on 4 November, taking effect the following day.
The higher risk level activates additional surveillance and prevention measures, including rules affecting waterfowl hunting. During transport, live decoy birds from different holding sites must not be mixed. Direct contact between decoys resident at a hunting site and those transported to it is also prohibited.
In designated special-risk areas, additional restrictions apply to the transport and use of these birds according to their keeper’s category, alongside measures protecting poultry and other captive birds from contact with wild birds. Movements of game birds in these areas are subject to veterinary conditions, with additional virological testing when birds of the duck family are moved between game-bird farms.
The measure aims to limit transmission from wild birds to birds kept by people, with stricter local measures possible according to the risk assessment.
Source: France’s Official Journal.
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