Nightmare bird flu: 17,200 animals killed in Brandenburg!

Nightmare bird flu: 17,200 animals killed in Brandenburg!

Recently, the situation surrounding the H5N1 bird flu in Germany has worsened dramatically. How World According to reports, around a month after the first outbreak in Brandenburg, around 17,200 animals were killed in twelve communities. The affected animals are mainly ducks, turkeys, geese and broiler chickens. The measures to contain avian influenza took place in ten companies and two private farms, with most of the killings taking place in the Märkisch-Oderland district. The first case in a duck breeding farm in Neuhardenberg caused alarm.

In order to stop the spread of the highly contagious virus, there is a comprehensive requirement for poultry to be kept in Brandenburg. This was ordered by the district veterinary offices, although the decision on compulsory stables is not standardized across Germany. In some other federal states, such as Vechta and Cloppenburg, stable requirements have also been introduced. Anyone who does not adhere to these rules must expect fines of up to 30,000 euros RND explained.

Dead wild birds and other restrictions

The effects of bird flu are not limited to poultry. Around 2,250 dead cranes were counted in the Linum rest area in the Ostprignitz-Ruppin district. In addition, further deaths took place at various locations, including around 140 deaths in the Nauen sewage treatment plant and 75 at Gülper See in Havelland. In total, the ministry estimates the number of dead cranes at up to 2,800. The disease is causing several species of wild birds, especially cranes, to be massively affected, report the experts Friedrich Loeffler Institute.

The spread of avian influenza occurs with high intensity in the autumn. Several outbreaks were recorded between the beginning of September and mid-October, affecting both domestic and wild birds. More than 500,000 birds have already had to be killed to prevent the virus from spreading further. Transmission occurs both directly and indirectly: through contact with infected wild birds or through contaminated objects.

Safety measures for poultry farmers

For hobbyists and poultry farmers, there are some important safety measures that should be followed to minimize the spread of bird flu. This includes, among other things, avoiding direct contact with wild birds, securing food and bedding from wild birds, and disinfecting hands and shoes. Reporting suspected cases to the veterinary office is also mandatory to ensure that all possible infections are treated immediately.

In summary, H5N1 avian influenza is a major concern for the entire industry. The current developments in Brandenburg and the large number of dead wild birds in particular form a worrying background. Containment measures are necessary to protect animal populations and ensure public health.