Bird flu is spreading: How to protect pets and birds!

Bird flu is spreading: How to protect pets and birds!

Bird flu is currently causing serious concern in the animal world, especially in Germany. The highly pathogenic H5N1 virus is spreading rapidly and affects not only wild birds, but also farm animals such as chickens, geese and turkeys. Thousands of cranes and hundreds of thousands of poultry have already been killed as a precaution to contain the further spread of the virus, reports said Geo.

The virus does not stop at many bird species. Water birds such as swans, ducks and seagulls as well as birds of prey are particularly at risk. However, songbirds such as robins, tits and sparrows do not appear to be affected. Feeding garden birds is therefore completely harmless, but you should still pay attention to hygiene in order to avoid other diseases such as trichomonosis or salmonellosis. Feeding areas must be cleaned daily and food should be provided in small quantities in dry locations.

Be careful for pets

For cats in particular, the risk could increase through contact with infected birds or their excrement. Owners should be careful to restrict their cats' outdoor access, especially if there are known cases of bird flu in the area. Raw animal products and unpasteurized milk also pose a risk. If an infection in the cat is suspected, for example through symptoms such as discharge from the eyes or nose, loss of appetite or fever, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately Explosive explained.

Although dogs are less susceptible to the virus, caution should still be exercised here. Owners should ensure that their dogs have no contact with environmental pollutants, especially near water bodies where sick birds may be in the water. Unusual behavior or health problems should also be checked by a veterinarian.

Risk of transmission to humans is very low

But what about the people? The good news is that the risk of infection for the general population is considered to be very low. This explains the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Transmissions to humans, which usually only occur in close contact with infected poultry or their excretions, have so far been recorded primarily in distant regions such as Asia or Africa. Contagious transmission from person to person has not yet been observed.

Symptoms of infection in humans can include flu-like symptoms, breathing problems or gastrointestinal problems and, depending on the case, can be more severe. Special attention remains particularly important for people working in the poultry industry. Thorough hand washing is recommended after any contact with birds or their droppings.

In conclusion, it should be noted that prevention and hygiene are the best means of protecting the health of humans and animals. It is important to observe healthy feeding habits and to immediately report any infected animals to the relevant authorities. This is how we can all help stop the spread of bird flu.