Dutch battle to control virus

BIRD flu has cost the poultry and egg sector in the Netherlands more than 100 million, and rising, as the poultry disease continues to spread. Around 18 million poultry have been slaughtered as authorities fight to contain the outbreak in the world’s No 1 egg exporter, and fourth largest overall poultry exporter.

Tens of millions of euros have been spent by the Dutch government over and above the cost to the industry.

Around 150 workers at poultry slaughter-houses have been laid off, and many others put on temporary leave of absence.