Bird flu hits Brandenburg: 155,000 animals saved or killed!

Bird flu hits Brandenburg: 155,000 animals saved or killed!

Bird flu currently has poultry farms in Germany firmly in its grip. A current situation that is causing a lot of concern: outbreaks of avian influenza are increasingly being reported in ten federal states, and this has already led to the killing of over 500,000 animals. In Brandenburg alone, around 155,000 birds were killed because of eleven proven cases. Loud maz online Around 50 outbreaks have been registered in commercial poultry farms in the last few weeks.

Particularly worrying is the information about the migratory season of wild birds, which include geese and ducks, which is just beginning. This increases the risk of the highly contagious virus spreading further. Poultry farming in the flight paths of wild birds in particular is under high infection pressure. “There are acute risks of infection for many bird species, especially waterfowl, corvids and birds of prey,” explains Agriculture Minister Hanka Mittelstädt. Containment measures are of great importance.

Regional containment measures

In mid-October, over 1,800 cranes died of bird flu in Brandenburg, which further increased the concerns and the number of necessary measures. Stable requirements have been decided in several districts, with the exception of Oderspreewald-Lausitz. Poultry farmers there have to keep their animals in closed stables or under special protective devices to keep the virus away. Meanwhile, a nationwide obligation to have stables is not considered appropriate for the time being, as the Brandenburg state government relies on voluntary measures and wants to increase hygiene standards in the companies.

The authorities in North Rhine-Westphalia are also taking the situation seriously. Since October 31st, stables have been mandatory in the Wesel and Kleve districts to prevent the virus from spreading further. In Kleve, the virus has already been detected in a poultry farm where 19,000 turkeys were killed. Cleaning and disinfection of the stables have already been completed. On WDR It is reported that the stable requirement applies to professional and private poultry farmers and is expected to remain in place for at least three months. Poultry shows and markets are also prohibited.

The concerns of poultry farmers

The situation is causing uncertainty and concern for many poultry farmers. The Wesel district reports that around 3,000 farms with around 600,000 animals are affected. “We advise poultry farmers to voluntarily set up stables,” said the head of the Höxter district veterinary service. Whether a mandatory stable requirement becomes necessary depends on how events progress.

Bird flu is a serious threat to the poultry industry in Germany. The highly contagious virus can be quickly transmitted from wild birds to farm animals, which is why compliance with strict hygiene rules and protective measures is of utmost importance for poultry farmers. The coming weeks will be crucial in controlling the spread of avian influenza. Prevention and good management skills are essential to protect the health of the animals and ensure poultry production in the region.