By Alimat Aliyeva
Since November 13, Spain has prohibited the outdoor breeding of
chickens — a measure introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture as
part of new efforts to combat the spread of avian influenza amid a
rise in cases across Europe, Azernews reports.
The ban applies nationwide, including to organic farms and
small-scale holdings for personal consumption.
According to 20minutos, Spain lies on a major migratory route
used by birds traveling from Northern Europe to Africa for the
winter. These wild species can carry the virus and transmit it to
domestic birds through direct contact. Once avian influenza enters
a poultry farm, the spread accelerates due to close confinement and
exposure to contaminated secretions. Free-range chickens are
particularly vulnerable, as they are more likely to encounter
infected wild birds.
The World Health Organization has documented 103 human cases of
the virus between 2020 and January 2025, though no instances of
human-to-human transmission have been reported. Spain detected two
human cases between 2020 and 2024.
Beyond the public health concerns, outbreaks also pose
significant economic and animal welfare challenges. Since July 18,
2025, Spain has lost its bird flu–free status, preventing the
export of poultry products. Under EU regulations and national
protocols, every outbreak results in the suspension of all farm
operations, the culling of all poultry, and the destruction of
feed, water, and other potentially contaminated materials.
Agricultural experts warn that prolonged restrictions on
free-range farming could reshape Spain’s poultry industry, pushing
producers to adopt more biosecure indoor systems. Some fear this
may also influence consumer preferences, especially in a country
where demand for organic and free-range products has been steadily
rising.