Avian influenza in Brandenburg: 85,000 animals have to be killed!

Avian influenza in Brandenburg: 85,000 animals have to be killed!

There is a serious topic being talked about in Brandenburg: avian influenza. On October 25, 2025, it was announced that around 85,000 animals in the region would be killed to prevent the possible spread of the H5N1 virus. Particular attention is paid to an organic egg farm near Neuhardenberg, where there are around 24,000 laying hens. Due to the current situation, these have to be brought into stables, which represents a considerable challenge for many husbandry systems. RBB reports that the authorities identified the first case in a duck breeding farm on Saturday.

The Märkisch-Oderland veterinary office has now taken protective measures. Special monitoring and protection areas have been set up within a radius of ten kilometers around the affected company and will remain in place for at least 30 days. Here, poultry farmers have to monitor their animals daily and ensure that they are kept in closed stables or under protective nets. Dead animals must be reported immediately, otherwise you could face heavy fines. Loud RBB24 Around 3,000 animals have already been killed in an animal welfare manner in order to bring the situation under control.

Special measures in the region

The Berlin-Brandenburg state laboratory has detected the H5N1 virus subtype, and the Friedrich Loeffler Institute has confirmed the results. Consumer Protection Minister Hanka Mittelstädt (SPD) informed the population about the increasing outbreaks in Brandenburg and throughout Europe. She urged poultry farmers to review their safety measures and remain vigilant.

But it's not just avian influenza that's causing a stir. In Cottbus, a record crowd was expected at Christopher Street Day, which stands for tolerance and visibility of homosexual and queer people. Politics is also in flux: In Brandenburg an der Havel, the AfD candidate Chrupalla is providing campaign help as six candidates are fighting for the top of the town hall. Despite everything, the situation in animal husbandry remains the central challenge.

A look at further challenges

Avian influenza is not the only animal disease of concern in recent years. Lumpy skin disease, a disease that primarily affects cattle and water buffalo, is also an agricultural issue. This viral disease, which originally occurred in Africa and is now also occurring in Europe, continues to pose a major challenge to animal health. Even if this disease is harmless to humans, the economic damage can be significant, making the situation even more difficult for many farms. BMLEH informs that combating such animal diseases is a top priority.

The current events surrounding avian influenza may cause concern for many farmers and consumers in the region, but the comprehensive measures and attention of the authorities give hope that the situation will soon be under control.