Bird flu nightmare in Western Pomerania: Latest cases seal the fate of the chickens!

Bird flu nightmare in Western Pomerania: Latest cases seal the fate of the chickens!

In the municipality of Wusterhusen in the Vorpommern-Greifswald district, the outbreak of the highly contagious bird flu H5N1 is causing worried faces. The fourth case was reported here within a short time, as a private poultry farm with 48 chickens and ducks in Gustebin was affected. All animals were culled to protect against further spread. Loud NDR It was decided not to establish an exclusion zone around the outbreak operation as the local risk assessment deemed no further protective measures necessary.

Avian influenza is particularly common in the autumn. Germany, especially the federal states of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lower Saxony and Brandenburg, is currently confronted with numerous outbreaks. In just a few months, over 500,000 domestic and wild birds have been killed because of the virus in an attempt to stop the spread. Infection occurs through direct or indirect contact with infected wild birds, with waterfowl playing a particularly important role. In this context points RND points out that hobbyists should be particularly vigilant. Suspected cases must be reported directly to the veterinary office in order to prevent larger outbreaks.

Risk of infection and protective measures

Birds can suffer from various symptoms including apathy, refusal to eat and breathing problems, such as RND explained. Cleanliness in the stable and strict hygiene measures are crucial. From using cleaned footwear to avoiding kitchen waste, everything is important to minimize the risk of infection. It is also advisable to keep stables in good condition and carry out regular checks.

The Friedrich Loeffler Institute has also determined that H5N1 infections are already spreading through cranes in Germany, with several thousand of these birds having died. It is suspected that these animals came into contact with the virus while resting on their migratory routes, which facilitated its spread. Loud NABU However, cranes are not the primary cause of the current outbreaks.

Outlook and recommendations

The requirements regarding stable stables vary depending on the district, although some regions have already introduced stricter measures. It is important for poultry farmers to closely monitor developments and act preventively. Coordination between veterinary offices and farmers is essential in order to have a good handle on dealing with the situation. Close cooperation can help to quickly contain the risk of spread and ensure the protection of the population and wild animals.

Nevertheless, the case in Wusterhusen clearly shows that it is more necessary than ever to establish the highest safety standards and to act responsibly, both in hobby farming and in large companies - because bird flu is no longer a distant threat.