A case of avian influenza strain H5N8 was diagnosed in a backyard flock in France near the border with Belgium. This event followed cases of H5N8 avian influenza in this neighboring nation and in adjacent Luxembourg.

The Ministry of Agriculture has increased the avian influenza risk from negligible to moderate. This determination will result in confinement of hens in areas considered to be vulnerable to introduction and dissemination of infection. As in previous years the most recent outbreaks are attributed to introduction by migratory waterfowl and additional cases are most likely.