Bird flu alarm: mandatory stables and zones in Eichsfeld and Kyffhäuserkreis!

Bird flu alarm: mandatory stables and zones in Eichsfeld and Kyffhäuserkreis!

In recent weeks, avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has caused excitement in the Cologne region. The Eichsfeld district has already issued a comprehensive stable requirement for all domestic poultry. This affects all poultry farmers who are obliged to inform the veterinary office immediately if more than three animals or more than two percent of the flock die within 24 hours. This regulation aims to efficiently contain the disease and prevent further outbreaks. Loud MDR Avian influenza was also confirmed in a dead crane in Dingelstädt at the end of October.

The Kyffhäuser district is particularly affected, where a protection and surveillance zone has been set up. This zone covers several towns, including Bad Frankenhausen and Steinthaleben, and has a radius of ten kilometers. During this time, 139 animals were counted as having died in the Kyffhäuser district. There is a strict ban on citizens entering the banks of the Kelbra reservoir in order to minimize the risk of further spread.

Special requirements and reporting obligations

Apart from Eichsfeld, all poultry and kept birds in the Nordhausen district have also had to remain in stables since October 23rd. There is also a protection zone around Gudersleben, where the virus broke out in a poultry farm. Sales and events involving poultry are strictly prohibited in these zones. Similar rules are also in force in the Unstrut-Hainich district.

In other parts of Thuringia, such as Jena and the Saale-Holzland district, there is currently no general obligation to have stables, while in the Saale-Orla district there are partial obligations due to risk areas. Here, certain districts such as the Plothen pond area have to contend with mandatory stables. The situation is serious. This makes compliance with hygiene and disinfection requirements all the more important.

Wild Bird Safety Precautions

Wild birds are particularly in focus because they can carry the virus. If sick or dead birds are found, the public is asked not to touch them and instead to inform the responsible authorities. The municipalities are responsible for collecting the animals. Information from the community should include all relevant details such as location and species alb-donau-kreis.

How this situation will develop remains to be seen. Animal owners are required to act responsibly and comply with all guidelines and reporting obligations in the interests of animal health, while the authorities are keen to prevent the further spread of avian influenza. The current situation shows that every report and prevention counts. Safe handling of howling birds remains the top priority for everyone.