Avian influenza reaches Uckermark: geese population under quarantine!

Avian influenza reaches Uckermark: geese population under quarantine!

There are currently serious developments in the Uckermark district regarding avian influenza, which has now spread to commercial poultry farming. *Nordkurier* reports that several wild birds tested positive for the H5N1 virus. A goose farm in Lychen is particularly affected, where there have been increased animal losses of around 950 geese.

The business owner immediately informed the Uckermark district veterinary office. Immediate measures were taken: the animal population was closed, sampled and the animals had to be killed in an animal welfare manner and disposed of harmlessly. This is a necessary step to prevent the spread of the virus.

Protection measures and zones

With the outbreak of avian influenza, a general animal disease decree is published. This includes the establishment of a protection zone with a radius of at least three kilometers and a monitoring zone with a radius of ten kilometers around the affected company. Strict safety measures apply in these zones aimed at minimizing the risk of infection for domestic poultry.

Avian influenza, caused by the highly contagious H5N1 virus, can have serious consequences not only for birds, but also for other animals and potentially for humans. As can be read on the WHO website, the H5N1 virus can cause mild and sometimes very serious illnesses in mammals, including humans, which in some cases can be fatal.

Preventive measures for poultry farmers

All poultry farmers are urged to adhere to biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of further spread. This includes hygiene, thorough cleaning and disinfection of living spaces. It is strongly recommended that sick or deceased animals be reported to the veterinary office immediately. In order to prevent the virus from spreading further, a confinement order for the entire Uckermark district will come into force on November 2nd.

The H5N1 virus outbreak is not new. According to WHO information, the virus has been known since 1996 and has caused many outbreaks in birds. However, what is particularly alarming is the increase in fatal cases in mammals observed in recent years. In addition to birds, many other animals are also affected, including seals, cats and even dogs. This suggests that the threat posed by the H5N1 virus is far broader than one might initially think.

In this serious situation, it is important that all parties involved work closely together and take appropriate measures to ensure both animal health and human safety. Everyone should do their part to stop the spread of the virus and protect the animals.