Bird Flu Forces Culling of 28,000 Turkeys in Skåne, Sweden

A significant bird flu outbreak has been confirmed at a turkey farm in Tomelilla, Skåne, leading to the culling of approximately 28,000 turkeys, according to the Swedish Board of Agriculture. The outbreak was detected over the past weekend, prompting authorities to order the immediate eradication of all birds at the affected farm to curb the spread of the avian influenza virus. In response, high-risk zones have been established across southern Sweden starting October 27, where all poultry must now be kept indoors.

The Swedish Animal Welfare Agency confirmed the presence of the virus through testing at the farm. As a precautionary measure, the affected facility is under strict restrictions prohibiting any movement of animals or animal products off-site. This outbreak is part of a worrying trend of increased avian influenza transmission in the region this year. Farmers in the high-risk areas are urged to seek veterinary assistance promptly if they observe sudden illness or death in their poultry.

Ella Sigvardsson, a disease control officer, emphasized the urgency of these actions to prevent further spread. These containment efforts highlight the regional concern over the escalating bird flu situation, which has caused substantial economic and agricultural disruptions in southern Sweden.