First suspected case of bird flu discovered in Mansfeld-Südharz!

First suspected case of bird flu discovered in Mansfeld-Südharz!

In Saxony-Anhalt, bird flu is making news again, and the suspected case in a poultry farm in the Mansfeld-Südharz district is causing unrest. Loud MDR The affected farm has around 40,000 laying hens and this is the first case that has been identified in a poultry farm in the state. The virus had previously only been detected in wild birds.

Preparations to kill the entire population are already in full swing. The veterinary office therefore has the option of ordering this measure without confirming the suspicion. The renowned Friedrich Löffler Institute is currently investigating the incident, and if confirmed, the animals on the farm will have to be culled. In addition, a kilometer-wide exclusion zone will be set up to prevent the virus from spreading further.

Healthy precautions and stable duty

The consequence of this spread is not without its consequences, as poultry products are not allowed to be sold or circulated within a radius of three kilometers. In addition, an observation zone with a radius of 10 kilometers will be set up to keep the situation under control. Since October 24th, stables have been mandatory in the entire Mansfeld-Südharz district; this means that poultry must be housed in closed houses or secure facilities. Many farmers are affected, with over 4,000 poultry farmers.

Unfortunately, the developments are not just local. Loud ZDF Bird flu is also spreading rapidly in other parts of Germany. Reports about poultry farms in Baden-Württemberg, where 15,000 animals had to be killed, show how serious the situation is. The cranes are also severely affected - thousands have already died. What is particularly alarming is that the animal disease is widespread in Germany all year round, but increases with bird migration in autumn.

The risk to the population

The Friedrich Loeffler Institute has upgraded the risk of further outbreaks in poultry farms to “high”. Although no H5N1 cases have been reported in humans to date, there is a certain risk of transmission due to high infection doses. The population should therefore definitely avoid contact with dead birds in order to prevent the possible spread of the virus. There is currently no particular risk of serious illness for the general public.

With regard to the fight against bird flu, it is worth mentioning that vaccines against the virus are currently not approved in the EU. However, in France there are specific vaccines for poultry that are already being used. This constant challenge requires intensive action and a good hand to manage the situation and minimize risks.

Overall, bird flu remains a hot topic that requires the utmost attention in Cologne and beyond. A comprehensive information policy and preventive measures are now more important than ever to contain the transmission of the virus and protect the well-being of animals and people.