Avian influenza danger: First cases discovered in the Oberspreewald-Lausitz!

Avian influenza danger: First cases discovered in the Oberspreewald-Lausitz!

In recent days there have been worrying outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Brandenburg, particularly in the Oberspreewald-Lausitz district. The first two cranes that were infected were spotted on October 27th. These were immediately rescued by the veterinary office and the Lauchhammer fire department. During sample collection on October 30th, avian influenza was detected in the state laboratory, which was finally confirmed by the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI) on November 6th. Overall, the district has issued safety measures for poultry farmers, which will come into force from November 7th, in order to contain the further spread. This reports [osl-online.de](https://www.osl-online.de/news/1/1151839/nachrichten/erste-f%C3%A4lle-der-gefl%C3%BCgelpest-bei-wildv%C3%B6geln -in-osl-veterin%C3%A4ramt-des-district-oberspreewald-lausitz-erl%C3%A4sst-ma%C3%9Fnahme-f%C3%BCr-gefl%C3%BCgelhalter.html).

In order to avert the danger, poultry farms with over 50 animals are now obliged to keep their animals in closed stables or protected facilities. Even smaller populations should be stocked as a precaution. Poultry farmers are required to report their stocks to the Veterinary Office. An essential part of the new regulations is that poultry must be separated from other animals or tested negative for at least seven days before being incorporated. In addition, strict hygiene rules must be observed to avoid contact between domestic and wild birds.

Security measures for the population

The population and hunters are expressly made aware of the need to temporarily suspend hunting of ducks and wild geese. Dead birds should not be approached too closely without taking measures; if they are found, the veterinary office must be contacted immediately. You should also pay attention to symptoms such as high fever, loss of appetite, weakness and shortness of breath. These measures are important to keep the risk of further spread of the virus low.

According to the FLI's risk assessment of October 20, 2025, the risk of entry and further spread of the HPAI-H5 virus in waterfowl populations and poultry farming remains high. This virus has already caused concern in the past and has also been proven to occur in other regions of Germany. In January 2024, for example, nine outbreaks were identified in domestic poultry, including laying hens and turkey fattening farms. The H5N1 subtype was detected in almost all cases, which further underlines the explosiveness of the current situation, as the Friedrich Loeffler Institute informs.

The situation makes it clear that we are all required to be vigilant and adhere to the new guidelines. It is up to each individual to ensure the safety of our animals and the entire population through careful handling. Further information on current developments and measures can be found on the district and FLI websites to stay well informed. By the way, it is not only important to protect your own animals, but also the wild bird population, which plays a crucial role in our ecosystem and whose health must also be kept in mind.