Epizootics Swans in Vaud die of bird flu
Three dead swans were found on the territory of the Vaud municipality of Yvorne last Saturday. Investigations have shown that the birds died of bird flu.
17.12.2025, 12:24
17.12.2025, 12:25
SDA
Following the discovery of the dead swans, the cantonal veterinarian ordered a local tightening of preventive measures against the animal disease, as the Vaud authorities announced on Wednesday. A control zone with a radius of one kilometer was immediately set up around the affected site.
Within this area, the preventive measures issued by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) at the end of November apply. These precautions are intended to prevent any contact between domestic poultry and wild birds.
Poultry may only be kept in outdoor areas that are protected against the entry of wild birds by nets, fences or other devices. If this is not possible, the animals must be kept indoors. Ducks, geese and ratites must also be kept separately from chickens.
The FSVO ordered the new regulations for holdings with 50 or more poultry. In the affected restricted area near Yvorne, the prevention measures mentioned also apply to poultry farms with fewer than 50 animals, according to the Vaud authorities.
Notification obligation for poultry farmers
The canton is calling on all poultry farmers to be more vigilant. In the event of suspicious symptoms in domestic poultry - such as acute respiratory problems, a decline in laying performance, reduced feed or water intake and increased mortality - the keeper must inform a vet immediately.
Dead or sick wild birds must be reported to the game warden or the cantonal police. For reasons of hygiene, the animals should not be touched or taken to a care center.
No danger to the population
The canton of Vaud also pointed out that the transmission of bird flu to humans is extremely rare. Poultry products such as meat and eggs can be consumed without hesitation.
