Avian influenza in Greiz: Kilometer-long exclusion zone and red alert!

Avian influenza in Greiz: Kilometer-long exclusion zone and red alert!

In the Greiz district, Thuringia, avian influenza is making news again. The outbreak was recently confirmed by the National Reference Laboratory of the Friedrich Loeffler Institute. In one farm that kept 138 ducks and 15 geese, all remaining animals were killed to prevent further spread. Anyone who keeps an eye on current developments knows that such outbreaks must be taken seriously and can have consequences for the entire region. The exact reasons for the entry of the H5N1 virus are currently unclear, which further complicates the situation.

In order to take targeted action against avian influenza, the responsible ministry reacted immediately. An exclusion zone with a radius of three kilometers around the affected company has been set up. There is also a surveillance zone that extends over a radius of ten kilometers and also includes the Saale-Orla district. Within these zones, the transport of poultry and poultry products is prohibited, with few exceptions.

Health risks and protective measures

Poultry that become ill with avian influenza often show severe signs of illness and the course often leads to death. What is particularly worrying is the fact that in individual cases the virus can also be transmitted to people. People who have intensive contact with infected poultry or their droppings should monitor for flu-like symptoms or conjunctivitis for at least ten days. It is important that such warnings are taken seriously, as bmleh.de emphasizes.

The ministry is continuing to examine further protective measures, including a possible stable requirement, to protect the animals and stop the spread of the virus. Such measures are not new; There have been similar procedures in the past to ensure the health of animals and people.

Background on avian influenza

Avian influenza, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), occurs regularly in Germany. The H5N1 subtype in particular is always discussed. A current assessment by the Friedrich Loeffler Institute shows that the risk for people in Germany is considered to be extremely low. However, strict measures will be taken if further outbreaks occur. These include transport restrictions and inventory blocks.

In order to avoid a wave of infections and possible economic consequences, exchanges between various institutions, such as the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) and the RKI, are maintained on an ongoing basis. The topic is being treated intensively not only in Germany, but also at the European level. The EU Commission is keeping a close eye on the situation and is following it closely.

For the Greiz region, this means that supervision and control over poultry stocks is now particularly high. Farmers and poultry farmers are called upon to adhere to current regulations and monitor animal health.