News item | 25-10-2025 | 13:40
In Ravels, just across the border in Belgium, bird flu has been diagnosed at a breeding farm. Belgium has established a restricted area that partly falls within the Netherlands. That is why the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) has established a restriction zone around Baarle-Nassau, in North Brabant.
Transport ban
Due to the outbreak close to the Dutch border, part of the 10-kilometer restriction zone falls within the Netherlands. There are eight poultry farms in that area. A transport ban applies immediately within the 10-kilometer area. This means that poultry and breeding and consumption eggs may not be transported from locations with birds in this zone. There is also a ban on the disposal of bird manure and used litter, and on other animals and animal products from farms with birds. These measures are necessary to prevent spread to other parts of the country. Where exactly this is can be seen on the animal disease viewer of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).
National measures
Since October 16, 2025, there has been a national cage and shielding obligation in the Netherlands. The cage requirement applies to all commercially kept birds. The shielding obligation applies to non-commercially kept risk birds (for example chickens kept as a hobby).
Tracing investigation
Following this contamination, Belgium will conduct a tracing investigation into the source and possible risky contacts.