Kosovo Slams the Coop Door on Brazilian Chicken

In a decisive response to a bird flu outbreak on a Brazilian farm, Kosovo has immediately banned the import of chicken and other poultry products from Brazil. The move, announced by the Food and Veterinary Agency of Kosovo, is a preemptive step to prevent any risk of the virus spreading locally, even though the chances of human infection via poultry consumption remain extremely low.

The virus, confirmed in Brazil’s Rio Grande state on May 16, has already prompted import bans from global players like the EU and China. Kosovo, heavily reliant on Brazil for poultry—importing €30.6 million worth last year alone—is following suit to prioritize food safety.

Officials clarified the ban is temporary and will remain in place until the situation in Brazil stabilizes and risk assessments are reevaluated. While there's no cause for public panic, authorities stress that caution is key when it comes to outbreaks with potential public health implications.

Sources:

• https://www.index.hr/vijesti/clanak/kosovo-zabranilo-uvoz-piletine-iz-brazila-zbog-pticje-gripe/2672506.aspx?index_ref=naslovnica_vijesti_najnovije_d

• https://www.slobodnaevropa.org/a/kosovo-zabrana-uvoza-piletina-brazil/33419188.html