UAE imposes import ban on birds and poultry products from parts of Europe after virus outbreak

Authorities have taken action after a rise in bird flu cases across the continent

The UAE has banned the import of birds and poultry products from parts of Europe. EPA

The UAE has banned the import of birds and poultry products from a number of European countries following a virus outbreak.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment enforced the restrictions on areas which had recorded a surge in bird flu cases in November.

The authority prohibited the import of all species of domestic and wild live birds, ornamental birds, chicks, hatching eggs and their thermally untreated byproducts from the Netherlands, Germany, and select areas of Russia.

The import of poultry meat and table eggs from several regions of the UK was also banned as part of the safety measures.

"The resolutions align with MOCCAE’s priority of ensuring food safety and security," said a statement from the ministry.

"In this context, the ministry closely monitors the animal health situation in food import markets, and takes immediate precautionary measures when any of them are affected by pathogens.

"Such efforts curb the spread of pathogens in the country and protect animal health and food safety, in addition to safeguarding public health and well-being."

To control the spread of the disease, affected countries culled thousands of chickens.