Avian influenza is spreading: mandatory stables for southern Braunschweig districts!

Avian influenza is spreading: mandatory stables for southern Braunschweig districts!

Avian influenza continues to spread and is causing nervousness among poultry farmers in Germany. From tomorrow, October 29, 2025, a strict obligation to keep poultry in stables will come into force in the districts of Dahme-Spreewald, Spree-Neiße and Elbe-Elster in Brandenburg. The reason for this measure is the detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in wild birds, which has led to an increase in the number of dead and infected animals in recent days. This reports Niederlausitz Current.

All poultry farmers are now required to keep their animals in closed stables or in covered facilities that are protected against wild birds. This initially applies for a period of 30 days, after which the situation should be reassessed. In addition, poultry markets and exhibitions are prohibited for the time being in order to contain the further spread of the virus.

Risk factors and measures

Veterinary authorities warn of various risk factors that contribute to the spread of avian influenza. This includes bird migration and the high density of poultry in the region. Species such as turkeys and laying hens are particularly sensitive to the virus. In addition, poultry keepers must adhere to biosecurity measures, such as making food and water inaccessible to wild birds. Rainwater may not be used as drinking water. Thorough disinfection measures are carried out when entering the stable areas, whereby clean shoes or the company's own shoes are mandatory.

Animal owners are urged to report wild birds found dead and not to touch them. The appeal is aimed at the entire population in order to protect poultry populations as best as possible.

Spread and affected regions

Avian influenza has already spread in several districts. In Lower Saxony, for example, numerous stable requirements have already been imposed. For example, the Cloppenburg district has imposed a stable requirement for poultry since October 28, 2025, which has also affected other neighboring districts. In Saxony-Anhalt, the Börde district has also ordered a stable due to a suspected case of more than 50 dead cranes Poultry News reported.

The authorities in Thuringia, Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia are also alarmed and have taken measures to contain the virus. Infections among wild birds, especially cranes, are higher than ever before. According to the Friedrich Loeffler Institute, over 476,000 farm animals across Germany must be killed to stop the spread.

Public health and responses

In a video conference with veterinary offices, Agriculture Minister Miriam Staudte from Lower Saxony suggested temporarily leaving affected stables empty and financially compensating companies. This is particularly relevant as bird flu broke out earlier than usual this year. The German poultry industry has already reacted to the situation and is calling for a nationwide obligation to keep stables in order to meet the marketing challenges.

Experts assure that although the spread of the virus to humans is very rare, containment measures are necessary to minimize the potential risks. Consumption of poultry meat remains safe, as the virus is killed at temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius. That reported NDR.

The situation will continue to be closely monitored in order to provide poultry farmers with the best possible support and to protect the health of animals and people. Pressure is growing on the relevant authorities to take comprehensive measures to combat avian influenza.