Montenegro has confirmed its first case of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in domestic poultry across two farms located in the municipalities of Niksic and Bijelo Polje. The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5N1 was identified on March 4, 2026, according to an announcement from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management.
The virus was detected on non-commercial farms where birds are kept in free-range conditions with a limited number of animals. This development raises concerns about the potential spread of the virus, which has a high mortality rate among both domestic and wild birds.
Understanding Avian Influenza
Avian influenza is a viral disease that significantly affects birds, leading to severe health issues and high mortality rates. The virus spreads through direct contact among birds, contaminated equipment, water, and food. Wild migratory birds are the primary carriers of the disease, posing a risk to domestic poultry.
Symptoms indicating the presence of the virus can include a sudden increase in mortality rates, often without prior noticeable signs. Other general signs of illness may involve lethargy, decreased or complete loss of appetite, ruffled feathers, respiratory issues such as labored breathing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Neurological symptoms can also occur, including uncontrolled movements, tremors, and loss of balance.
Guidelines for Poultry Owners
In light of this confirmed case, poultry owners are urged to implement strict biosecurity measures. These include preventing any contact between domestic birds and wild birds, keeping poultry in enclosed facilities with secure window screens, and ensuring that all feed and water sources are protected from contamination.
Poultry owners must also take the following steps:
– Maintain cleanliness in housing facilities, ensuring thorough cleaning and disinfection after the last flock.
– Control access to farms, limiting entry to authorized personnel only.
– Avoid introducing new birds to existing flocks without proper health certifications.
– Report any unusual health changes or increased mortality in both domestic and wild birds to the nearest veterinary clinic or inspector.
The disease is currently present in several other countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, France, Germany, and Spain, highlighting the importance of vigilance among poultry producers.
While human infection is rare, it can occur, particularly among individuals with close and direct contact with infected birds or their excretions. Therefore, authorities emphasize the importance of reporting any cases of bird mortality and adhering to the recommended health measures.
The Food Safety, Veterinary, and Phytosanitary Administration will keep the public informed regarding any further measures necessary to control this outbreak.
