Avian flu has done what animal-rights activists have failed to for years: put an end, albeit temporary, to the production of foie gras. An outbreak of H5N1 flu in chickens in southwestern France has led to the emergency order.
The disease is not easily transmitted to humans, but when it is, it has a 60% fatality rate. The transmission to humans comes from close contact with an infected live bird. Past outbreaks of similar strains have forced mass slaughter of flocks. In this case, breeders are to keep birds away from production rooms and slaughter areas pending the end of the outbreak.
Estimates of losses to breeders and producers, to be compensated by the government, run as high as €130 million, and will affect about 4000 workers. For more details, see TheLocal.fr HERE
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