The recently detected case of avian influenza in a dead wild bird (Heron) found in the Algarve region does not change in the country's health status for avian influenza. Portugal maintains the officially free status for this disease.

In accordance with articles 10.4.2. to 10.4.4 of Chapter 10.4 of the OIE Terrestrial Code, Portugal status is Avian Influenza-Free Country, since that in the last 12 months no case of the disease has occurred in poultry.

It is also important to reassure that there is no possibility of acquiring this disease by the consumption of poultry meat or eggs.