The increase in H5N1 avian flu cases in Europe has led to restrictions, with millions of backyard birds kept indoors to protect them from wild birds.

The spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has led to an increase in fatal cases in Europe, prompting several countries to impose strict measures to protect backyard birds. Ireland recently ordered that all backyard birds be kept indoors, marking the first outbreak of avian influenza in the last three years. This disease has led to the culling of hundreds of millions of birds in recent years, affecting supply and driving up food prices. So far, 15 of the 27 EU member states have reported outbreaks of avian influenza this season, with a record number of 688 cases, compared to 189 last year. In Germany, over 30 farms have been affected, and approximately one million birds have been culled to prevent the spread of the virus. Although Poland, the main poultry producer in the EU, has recorded 15 outbreaks, authorities have not imposed measures to confine backyard birds.