Commission Decision 2005/744/EC laying down the requirements for the prevention of highly pathogenic avian influenza caused by influenza A virus of subtype H5N1 in susceptible birds kept in zoos in the Member States.

The aim of the present Decision is the reduction of the spread of avian influenza from birds living in the wild to susceptible birds in zoos. The Decision sets out rules which, depending on the specific epidemiological situation, shall be directed at preventing direct and indirect contact between birds living in the wild, especially waterfowl, with the susceptible birds in zoos. Member States shall adopt appropriate measures by taking into account the criteria and risk factors mentioned in Annex I. Based on a risk-assessment, they may decide to apply vaccination against avian influenza to susceptible birds kept in zoos, in accordance with the requirements established in Annex II.