Spain tightens measures due to H5N1 bird flu cases spotted in Andalusia

The Doñana National Park, in southern Spain, has activated level 2 of the avian influenza protocol measure, after three outbreaks of possibly infected wild birds have been detected in the region in recent days, including several cases in the protected biological area itself.

The first outbreak was found in the town of Aznalcázar, in Seville, where an infected great crested grebe was found dead. Subsequently, two other possible outbreaks were identified in the municipality of Hinojos, in Huelva, where an affected grey heron and a red-crested pochard were found.

The first outbreak in Huelva was detected in a poultry farm located a few kilometres from Doñana, which reported the detection of some cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Already on Monday, a second facility, 20 kilometres from the national park, reported the appearance of several dead birds on its premises.

Although the Junta de Andalucía does not yet have the official results of this second possible outbreak in Huelva, the Regional Minister for Sustainability and Environment, Catalina García, has reported the reinforcement of "surveillance" and "biosecurity" measures,** and has detailed that some birds have been "safely removed" to avoid possible contagion.

"We have activated level 2 of the protocol for avian influenza (H5N1) in Doñana, after detecting three outbreaks in wild birds," García said on social media.

Four positive cases in birds and 25 people under observation

So far, four positive cases have been confirmed. Other birds that have shown symptoms of the disease have been transferred to the Endangered Species Recovery Centres (CREA), according to local media.

Although a possible human infection would be extremely rare, up to 25 people who have been in contact with the birds are being monitored.

As part of the activated protocol, some 8,500 birds have been culled on one of the affected farms and possibly contaminated feed, litter and other materials have been disposed of. In addition, the facilities have been completely disinfected.

On the other hand, the Seville City Council, where several dead birds have appeared in recent days, has announced the preventive closure of several public spaces, such as the Tamarguillo Park, the Miraflores Park and the gardens of the Real Alcázar, which has led to the cancellation of the series of evening concerts 'Nights in the gardens of the Alcázar'.