Avian Influenza: Expansion of Prevention Measures Across Switzerland

Publication Date: Press Release Published on November 21, 2025

1. Header Section (Meta-Information)

Author: [press@clarus.news]
Source: Press release from the Federal Office
Publication Date: November 21, 2025
Reading Time of Summary: 3 minutes


2. Executive Summary (Conclusion Preceding)

With the detection of the avian influenza virus in Wil, the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (BLV) has ordered extensive prevention measures for the entire Switzerland. These measures are crucial to prevent the spread of an epidemic and protect poultry stocks. Poultry keepers now have an urgent responsibility to rigorously implement the new biosecurity guidelines to minimize the risk of a larger outbreak.


3. Critical Guiding Questions (liberal-journalistic formulated)

  • What long-term health and economic risks does insufficient implementation of the new biosecurity measures pose?
  • How can transparent communication between authorities and poultry keepers be ensured to minimize fears and uncertainties?
  • What innovative approaches are necessary to sustainably protect poultry stocks in Switzerland while maintaining farmers' freedoms?

4. Scenario Analysis: Future Perspectives

Short-term (1 year):
The new prevention measures could lead to a short-term reduction in potential infections; however, there is a risk that hasty measures could result in economic losses in the poultry sector.

Medium-term (5 years):
Technological advancements in monitoring and combating animal diseases may be introduced, allowing for better adaptation to such threats and raising societal awareness of biosecurity.

Long-term (10–20 years):
The management of animal diseases could result in a significant shift in values within agriculture, with a stronger focus on prevention, sustainability, and possibly changes in livestock policy at the European level.


5. Main Summary

a) Core Topic & Context

The press release addresses the Federal Office's response to the detection of the avian influenza virus in Switzerland. Given the circulation of the virus in Europe, the timeliness and scope of the measures are of high importance for both animal health and public health.

b) Key Facts & Figures (Bullet Points)

  • Detection of the avian influenza virus in Wil (SG) on November 21, 2025
  • Introduction of nationwide prevention measures effective November 25, 2025
  • Duration of the new regulation until March 31, 2026
  • Strong circulation of the virus in Europe prompts federal actions
  • Call to all poultry keepers for consistent implementation of the measures

c) Stakeholders & Affected Parties

  • Directly Affected: Poultry keepers across Switzerland
  • Institutions: Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (BLV), cantonal authorities
  • Society: General public interested in food safety

d) Opportunities & Risks

  • Opportunities: Improvement of animal health and prevention of diseases
  • Risks: Economic losses if measures are not fulfilled, increased monitoring and potential restrictions for poultry keepers

e) Action Relevance

Decision-makers should now promote the implementation of biosecurity measures and ensure that poultry keepers are aware of their responsibilities.