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Saxony Seeks EU Pilot to Test Bird Flu Vaccination After Worst Season of Culls

Officials want real-world data to evaluate poultry vaccines under strict EU rules that limit routine use.

Overview

  • More than 500,000 domestic birds have been culled in Saxony this season, with over 2.6 million affected nationwide.
  • Social minister Petra Köpping said the state will apply for an EU-authorized pilot to assess vaccination and develop a model immunization plan.
  • Current containment measures include restriction and surveillance zones and mandatory housing or protective enclosures for poultry.
  • Köpping backs raising compensation per culled animal from €50 to €110, with the Bundesrat set to decide on the proposal retroactive to October 1, 2025.
  • Vaccination remains controversial and tightly constrained by EU animal-disease law due to trade concerns, while African swine fever in Saxony is down to one active case.