The Ceva Wildlife Research Fund supports the vaccination of wild pelicans and peacocks at the Belgian animal park Pairi Daiza

This program aims to support Pairi Daiza Wildlife Park, voted the best zoo in Europe, in its fight against avian flu. Sciensano, the Belgian reference laboratory, is also involved in this tripartite collaboration to provide the necessary serological and virological monitoring and evaluation of the vaccination of the birds. 

Since October 2021, Europe has been facing an epidemic of highly pathogenic avian influenza, considered the most destructive ever observed. This epidemic, caused by the H5N1 virus, has led to the death of several million birds and affects almost all continents. Wildlife parks are also concerned about the risk of spreading the virus, as captive birds can become infected with the virus through direct or indirect contact with wild birds, whether migratory or from local fauna. 

After Pairi Daiza Wildlife Park officially reported a case of avian influenza in 2022, the park’s veterinarian had to look for new solutions to protect the birds, especially peacocks and pelicans. In addition to the biosecurity measures already in place, Alicia Quievy, Pairi Daiza’s veterinarian, decided to vaccinate with Ceva Santé Animale solutions, which offer a risk-free and good safety guarantee.

After obtaining all the necessary authorizations, a first injection was administered on March 1, followed by a second on April 19. The results are encouraging, with all vaccinated animals doing well. 

The Ceva Wildlife Research Fund is supporting this project by providing expertise, equipment, and funding. The Sciensano Institute is providing the necessary serological and virological monitoring and evaluation of the vaccination of the birds. This pelican and peacock conservation program at Pairi Daiza Wildlife Park is a concrete example of public-private collaboration having a positive impact. This is the second program supported by the Ceva Wildlife Research Fund, whose goal is to fund applied research projects to improve the health and welfare of wildlife and domestic animals.