Bird flu alarm signal: 15,000 animals in the Alb-Donau district affected!

Bird flu alarm signal: 15,000 animals in the Alb-Donau district affected!

What is happening in the Alb-Donau district? Today there was alarming news of an outbreak of bird flu at a large poultry farm. The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5N1 was detected there. The responsible authorities reacted immediately. How baden-wuerttemberg.de reported, the entire poultry population of around 15,000 animals was immediately blocked after the virus was confirmed by the Friedrich Loeffler Institute on the island of Riems. The responsible animal owners are now required to kill their animals in an animal welfare manner. These measures are part of the strategy to combat avian influenza.

Minister Peter Hauk emphasizes the need for high biosecurity measures to counteract the further spread of the disease. The local animal health authorities are already taking all the necessary steps. The regulations to combat such animal diseases are clearly regulated and effective in view of the danger posed by such a virus.

Biosecurity measures in focus

But what does this actually mean for poultry farmers in the region? In order to prevent the entry and spread of animal disease pathogens, strict Biosecurity measures necessary. These include, among other things, access restrictions to poultry flocks, the use of suitable protective clothing and changing footwear before entering the stables. If owners do not comply with these regulations, they not only put their animals at risk, but also the entire industry.

Particular attention is paid to securing the inflow of animals and the hygienic storage of feed. Wild birds are known to be reservoirs for avian influenza pathogens, which is why it is crucial to avoid contact between farmed poultry and wild birds at all costs. These include relevant regulations for keeping and securing stables, which are within the framework of the Avian influenza regulations are determined.

Containment and record keeping requirements

To contain the spread of the virus, poultry farmers must comply with various record-keeping requirements. If at least three animals are lost within 24 hours or more than two percent in populations of over 100 animals, a veterinary examination is mandatory. These controls are necessary to quickly identify possible outbreaks and take appropriate measures.

Until the situation is fully clarified, the authorities will remain in close contact with animal owners in order to take the best possible measures to contain bird flu. The current development is serious, but the experience of the last few years has shown that even critical situations can be mastered through correct handling and preventive measures.