Avian Influenza: A Highly Contagious Viral Disease on the Rise

In recent months, farmers have been holding their breath as cases of the highly pathogenic avian influenza type A(H5N1) continue to increase. The European Food Safety Authority already reported outbreaks in 27 European countries between September and December 2024. In addition, the virus is no longer confined to birds, it has also been detected in poultry, dairy cattle, and even humans. In mid-February, an outbreak was detected on a poultry farm in Belgium, where the disease has now spread to cats. In order to prevent the spread of avian influenza it is essential to raise biosecurity measures to the highest standards.
5 March 2025
Close-up chickens

What Is Avian Influenza?

Avian influenza, widely known as bird flu, is an extremely contagious and devasting viral disease primarily affecting wild and domestic birds. The virus is most prevalent during bird migration, as wild birds serve as carriers, harbouring multiple strains of avian influenza viruses without displaying symptoms. Transmission often occurs through direct contact with wild birds or exposure to infected faeces or secretions. Research highlights a direct link between avian migration and the spread of the disease. Not all variants of avian influenza are highly pathogenic, some variants only cause mild disease. However, strains like A(H5N1) are highly pathogenic and the main drivers for the epidemic observed today.

Biosecurity Measures To Prevent Spread

For farmers, an outbreak represents a dramatic scenario, often leading to high economic losses. In the EU, for example, stringent measures are enforced such as complete emptying of the farm, installing a protection zone and a surveillance zone with restricted movement, and thorough cleaning and disinfection of the premises, vehicles and materials. Key measures also include preventing access of external animals, controlling the entry of outside materials and minimising the number of visitors. Staff and visitors should always wear clean, protective clothing, use footbaths and follow strict hygiene protocols. These biosecurity measures must be focused on preventing the entry of the virus into the farm and, if the virus enters the facilities, limit its spread within or outside the facilities.

Huwa-San TR-50 and Roam Eco Power Packshots

Clean and Disinfect

Roam Technology offers a range of products to help maintain high biosecurity standards. A strong biosecurity protocol starts with cleaning all surfaces, stables, vehicles, and equipment at regular intervals. To achieve this, we recommend Roam Eco Power, an alkaline, eco-certified foam cleaner that effectively removes dirt and microorganisms. Moreover, cleaning before disinfection enhances the effectiveness of disinfectants.

Avian influenza viruses can survive between 8-48 hours in water, suggesting waterline disinfection is indispensable. To mitigate this risk, we recommend dosing Huwa-San TR-50* into the drinking water system to maintain water quality. This stabilised biocide, based on hydrogen peroxide, demonstrates  virucidal activity according to EN 14766 and EN 16777.

For detailed product information and application guidance, please contact your designated Roam Technology representative.

(*) Huwa-San TR-50 has proven virucidal effectivity in drinking water systems according to EN 14476 and EN 16777.

Huwa-San is registered as a biocide and subject to certain laws and regulations per country. As a results, in some countries, our full range is not available. Please contact us for more information on our registrations. Use biocides safely, always read the label before usage.