Norway has reported a new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, underlining the persistent threat of bird flu across Europe as the migratory season begins. The case, confirmed on 5 September 2025, occurred on a poultry farm in Hadsel municipality, Nordland County, where around 7,500 laying hens were housed. According to the Norwegian authorities, approximately 500 birds died before official confirmation of the disease.
Rapid response and containment zones
Following notification to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), Norwegian veterinary authorities swiftly introduced the disease-control measures required under EU Animal Health Law. These included the creation of a 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone around the affected farm.
The measures aim to contain the spread of the virus, protect the health status of birds elsewhere in Norway, and safeguard regional trade flows within the European Economic Area (EEA). Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to determine the source of infection, which remains unknown.
ESA approval of Norway’s actions
On 11 September 2025, the EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) formally approved Norway’s emergency measures. The decision confirmed that the control zones were established at a sufficient distance from the outbreak site and in line with EU Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687.
-
The protection zone in Hadsel applies until 2 October 2025.
-
The surveillance zone remains in place until 11 October 2025.
ESA emphasized that these measures are necessary to prevent unnecessary disruption to intra-EEA trade in poultry and poultry products, while ensuring the highest standards of animal health and food safety.
Wider implications for poultry producers
The outbreak in Norway illustrates the continued vulnerability of European poultry to HPAI, especially during autumn migrations when wild birds act as vectors for the virus. Producers in the region—and across Europe—are reminded of the need for strict biosecurity on farms, including:
-
Limiting farm access and controlling visitor movements.
-
Using dedicated protective equipment for staff.
-
Strengthening surveillance and promptly reporting unusual mortality.
A reminder for vigilance
While Norway has acted quickly and received ESA approval for its containment strategy, the episode highlights the ongoing challenge of bird flu across the continent. With winter approaching, the risk of further outbreaks remains high, and poultry farmers are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in applying biosecurity measures.
ESA’s decision can be found here.
