New bird flu outbreak: 10,000 Peking ducks at risk!

New bird flu outbreak: 10,000 Peking ducks at risk!

Concern about avian influenza is increasing again. In Brandenburg, a new case of bird flu was found in a poultry farm in Sietzing, in the municipality of Letschin. The farm, which houses around 10,000 Peking ducks, was examined by the Friedrich Loeffler Institute, which was able to detect the virus. It is currently unclear when the animals may be killed, but it could be as early as the next day. What is particularly dramatic is that more than 130,000 geese and ducks in the district have already died this autumn because of this animal disease. Brandenburg is one of the most affected federal states in Germany when it comes to avian influenza, reports Daily Mirror.

But what are the causes of these outbreaks? In addition to the seasonal developments that many farmers already keep an eye on, there are numerous factors that affect the health of poultry. Water quality is also an important part of animal husbandry, especially if fish are bred nearby or on the same farm. The pH value of the water plays a crucial role here. An ideal balance in the water is necessary to guarantee the well-being of the animals and to avoid diseases. The recommended pH for aquaculture is between 6.5 and 8.5, with each fish having specific needs, explained Harvestsea.

Effects of pH changes

Let's get back to bird flu! The outbreaks not only have a direct impact on animal husbandry, but also fuel economic fears. Many farmers are wondering how they can maintain their businesses during such times. The balance in the pH value of the water can play a decisive role depending on the circumstances. If the pH value is too low, the fish experience stress, which can also affect the health of the ducks and geese. A pH value above 8.5 can also be stressful for the animals and make them more susceptible to illness.

In practice, this means for farmers to monitor pH regularly. There are now techniques and tools that make it possible to control and, if necessary, regulate these values. Devices like pH meters or special software apps like those from Harvestsea can help keep an eye on water quality and provide timely information about necessary adjustments.

The hope remains that the affected companies can contain the risk of avian influenza and breed healthy animals through targeted measures and comprehensive monitoring. It will be exciting to see how the responsible authorities and farmers react to the current situation and what measures they take in the long term to prevent such outbreaks in the future.