Red alert: Schwerin Zoo reacts to the danger of avian influenza!

Red alert: Schwerin Zoo reacts to the danger of avian influenza!

Avian influenza is on the rise again and is causing concern, not only among poultry farmers, but also at numerous zoos that have to prepare for the dangers. The zoo in Schwerin is currently monitoring the spread of avian influenza in the region very closely and has already taken various precautionary measures. According to the zoo spokeswoman, the situation is being reassessed daily in order to be able to react in a timely manner to any outbreaks. This constant vigilance is essential because the virus, which primarily affects chickens and turkeys, does not only occur during the migration season - it can be active all year round, as nordkurier.de reports.

In order to minimize the risk to the animals, some bird species have already been housed in closed stables. The zoo has developed comprehensive alert and action plans that can come into effect immediately in the event of an outbreak. Even if the situation is tense, the visitors do not have to fear any inconvenience for the time being, the spokeswoman emphasizes. Nevertheless, the situation remains serious, as numerous dead cranes have been found in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district and in northwest Mecklenburg.

Protective measures and recommendations

The veterinary authorities have already published notices to warn poultry farmers to be careful. It is strongly recommended to protect stocks and avoid the possibility of virus entry. If signs such as suspicious illnesses, loss of performance or even death occur in the animals, these must be reported to the veterinary office immediately. Official veterinarian Dr. Philipp Aldinger also advises restricting the animals' freedom of movement, especially when flocks of wild birds pass over the stables.

Avian influenza, known as a severe form of avian influenza, has caused massive outbreaks in the past and can lead to animal death in an extremely short period of time. The Friedrich Loeffler Institute provides further information on its website that is valuable for affected owners and interested animal lovers.

Current developments in Germany

Current data show that seven outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5 were detected in domestic poultry in Germany in January 2024 alone. These mainly affected four laying hen farms as well as several private owners and a turkey fattening population. There were also 31 cases in the wild bird population during the same period, with barnacle geese in the Wadden Sea particularly affected. The H5N1 subtype was confirmed in almost all cases, H5N5 was only detected in one dead black-backed gull on Helgoland, as discussed on fli.de.

It remains to be seen how the situation will develop further. But the tailors and animal keepers in the zoos make it clear that they have a good hand when it comes to ensuring the safety of the animals. Dealing with avian influenza seriously and working closely with the authorities are essential.