Bird flu wave in Brandenburg: Worrying spread!

Bird flu wave in Brandenburg: Worrying spread!

In the last few days, the situation surrounding bird flu in Brandenburg has worsened dramatically. As Die Welt reports, a massive die-off of cranes has been found in northwest Brandenburg. Agriculture Minister Hanka Mittelstädt is alerting the public to increasing numbers of wild birds, which could contribute to the further spread of the virus. Of particular concern: wild bird migration has only just begun and as temperatures fall, the wild bird population could continue to increase. This is a development that is putting agriculture and livestock farmers in the region on high alert.

So far, six companies have already been affected, and two more were added in Märkisch-Oderland last weekend. The minister emphasizes that wild bird migration is just the beginning and it is time to take serious precautions. Since the outbreak began, hundreds of thousands of poultry animals have been killed in Germany because of bird flu, including around 400,000 animals. Agriculture Minister Mittelstädt therefore appeals to animal owners to continually monitor their livestock and to inform the respective districts if symptoms are suspected.

Biosecurity measures are the be-all and end-all

To prevent the spread of the highly pathogenic H5N8 avian influenza virus, it is essential to adhere to strict biosecurity measures. EFSA highlights the importance of avoiding contact between wild birds and poultry. These include, among other things, keeping birds indoors and housing geese and ducks separately. In Neutrebbin, 50,000 broilers have already been killed and disposed of properly to contain the disease, while 80,000 ducks are being culled in Neuhardenberg.

As already mentioned, hygiene and biosecurity guidelines are particularly important to prevent further infections in livestock farms. The minister is in constant communication with the state veterinarian and the crisis center in order to keep a close eye on developments. A transport ban for poultry and eggs applies within a radius of ten kilometers from the affected businesses, and poultry markets are also prohibited.

The economic impact

The rapid spread of bird flu is already having its first economic consequences. With the traditional goose slaughter season approaching, starting before St. Martin's Day on November 11, fears of price increases are now emerging. The majority of geese during this period are imported from abroad, particularly from Hungary and Poland. Under the current circumstances, the question arises as to whether prices can remain stable.

The Agriculture Minister warns: Further challenges for animal owners can be expected, particularly due to the increasing number of wild birds. The interaction between nature, livestock breeding and the livestock fish is more important than ever in these times. The situation must continue to be monitored closely in order to be able to react quickly if necessary.