Denmark has implemented a preventive vaccination strategy against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) for captive birds kept in zoological gardens (confined establishments). The programme is voluntary and subject to annual evaluation. Currently six approved zoological gardens have applied for permission to vaccinate.
Vaccination against HPAI is generally prohibited under EU legislation. However, Member States may authorise vaccination for specific categories of birds when specific requirements regarding surveillance, official controls, record-keeping and movement restrictions are fulfilled. These EU-rules are stipulated in Regulation (EU) 2023/361 (as amended).
Aim of the Vaccination Strategy
The strategy is designed with the aim to protect bird collections in these confined establishments from HPAI infection and thereby also supports the conservation of rare and endangered bird species.
The vaccinated birds are not kept for the purpose of food production. They are kept for educational, scientific, cultural and conservation purposes, including participation in national and international breeding programmes for endangered species.
Vaccination does not replace biosecurity or disease surveillance but serves as an additional protective measure to already implemented biosecurity measures.
Only by Permission
Preventive vaccination is only permitted in approved zoological gardens and only following authorisation from the Danish Veterinary and Food Authority (DVFA).
Each participating zoological garden must obtain permission from the DVFA and comply with all requirements laid down in the national vaccination strategy which follows EU legislation.
Surveillance and Official Controls
All participating establishments are subject to enhanced surveillance and official controls by the DVFA.
Traceability and Record-Keeping
All vaccinated birds must be individually identifiable, for example by leg ring or microchip.
Participating zoological gardens are required to maintain detailed records of vaccinated birds, including identification, vaccination dates, vaccine used, and the responsible veterinarian. These records must be available to the DVFA upon request.
Movement Restrictions
Vaccinated birds are subject to specific movement restrictions.
Movements may only take place following authorization by the DVFA and in accordance with applicable EU legislation. Any transfer of vaccinated birds to another confined establishment requires prior approval from the competent authorities involved.
No Entry into the Food Chain
Neither vaccinated birds nor products derived from them may enter the food chain.
The birds covered by the vaccination strategy are kept exclusively for conservation, breeding, educational, scientific and cultural purposes.
Vaccine Used
The vaccine currently used under the strategy is Nobilis Influenza H5N2 (MSD), administered under veterinary supervision as part of the approved preventive vaccination programme.