Bird flu is spreading: mandatory stables in Jerichower Land from October 30th!

Bird flu is spreading: mandatory stables in Jerichower Land from October 30th!

There is currently no good news for poultry farmers in Jerichower Land: Avian influenza, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), has now been confirmed in this region. This is reported by Volksstimme, marking the start of decisive measures that will come into force from Thursday, October 30th.

After the death of two cranes in Möckern and Ladeburg, extensive precautionary measures became necessary. From the date mentioned, all types of poultry are required to be kept in stables throughout the district. The aim is to protect domestic and commercial poultry populations as best as possible. All poultry farmers are required to keep their animals in closed stables protected from wild birds. Events where poultry is exhibited or sold are also prohibited.

Urgent request to pet owners

Volksstimme emphasizes that anyone who has sick or dead animals in their inventory must immediately report them to the Office of Consumer Protection. In addition, poultry farmers who have not yet reported their keeping are required to report the number of animals kept as well as their use and location. A checklist with important information is available on the district's website.

Problems could also arise from the situation in other parts of Germany. As ZDF reports, bird flu is on the rise in Germany and Europe. In many federal states, including Baden-Württemberg, tens of thousands of animals have already had to be killed to stop the spread of the virus. The situation is serious because the Friedrich Loeffler Institute has upgraded the risk of further outbreaks to “high”.

The dangers of bird flu

There are currently no known cases of H5N1 in humans in Germany, but there is a certain risk to the population, which is particularly evident in cases of high contact with infected animals. Contact with dead birds should be strictly avoided to prevent possible virus transmission. Bird flu spreads primarily during bird migration in autumn, with an estimated 2,000 cranes having already died in Germany.

Reporting wild birds that are dead or have behavioral problems is also very important; Residents are requested to immediately report such observations to the responsible office. Dead animals may not be touched or taken with you under any circumstances.

With all of these developments, it is important to keep a cool head and take protective measures seriously. This is the only way to effectively contain the spread of this dangerous animal disease.