Animal disease alarm: New measures against avian influenza in Cottbus!

Animal disease alarm: New measures against avian influenza in Cottbus!

From today, October 29, 2025, a new one will apply in the Spree-Neiße district and the city of Cottbus General animal disease decree, which includes measures to protect against avian influenza. Since the beginning of October, there has been a high incidence of highly pathogenic avian influenza of the H5N1 subtype in wild birds in Germany, which has now led to this preventive step.

The situation is particularly worrying in Brandenburg, where the virus was detected in five poultry farms. The number of detections for wild birds is significantly higher than for domesticated birds. The district veterinary office has issued this general order to stop the spread of the disease and prevent it from being introduced by wild birds.

Measures and restrictions

The order includes numerous measures. All bird owners are obliged to keep their animals in closed stables or under special protective devices. Daily checks for changes are essential and events such as poultry exhibitions are prohibited for the time being. There are also strict hygiene rules, which include, among other things, disinfecting access routes and keeping records of people who enter the property. Offenses can be punished with fines of up to 30,000 euros.

• Aufstallungspflicht für alle Vögel
• Verbringungsverbot für Vögel und Geflügelfleisch aus der Überwachungszone
• Tägliche Desinfektion an Zufahrtswegen
• Eigenüberwachung der Bestände

In a supra-regional context, the Central Saxony district preventative measures are also in force. Due to an outbreak in Grimma on March 3rd, a surveillance zone was set up there that covers several districts and places similar demands on animal owners. The effects of the epidemic are also evident here, which has already resulted in far-reaching measures.

Situation in the Cottbus Zoo

The zoo in Cottbus has so far been spared from the epidemic; No cases of avian influenza have been reported there since the outbreak of the animal disease. Nevertheless, preventive measures were taken. Animals covered by the order are brought to winter quarters or housed under special protective devices. The jetty at the Oberteich and the Flamingo Lagoon are closed to visitors, while other areas of the park remain open according to current status.

These measures are necessary to protect animal populations and contain the spread of avian influenza. The situation is serious and it is up to every owner to act responsibly to ensure the health of the birds.