Bird flu alarm: 50 carcasses discovered at the reservoir in Ismaning!

Bird flu alarm: 50 carcasses discovered at the reservoir in Ismaning!

In the last few days, worrying news has come from the Munich region. Around 50 carcasses of waterfowl were discovered in the nature reserve in the north of the city. Initial investigations suggest that the animals are infected with the influenza A virus H5N1. The districts around Munich, Dachau and Freising are particularly affected, where recently dead wild geese and swans were found. Five illnesses were reported in the Mühldorf district. The laboratory results on the carcasses are still pending, but the high number indicates a clear outbreak of bird flu, like that South German newspaper reported.

Bird flu is spreading rapidly in Germany. Federal Agriculture Minister Alois Rainer is warning of a rise in infections, which has increased significantly in the last two weeks. This phenomenon is not new, but the current level of infections in cranes is particularly striking. The minister and experts see the need to actively combat the spread of the virus in order to both protect animals and prevent damage to agriculture. Almost all federal states, including Bavaria, are affected by bird flu. BR.de highlights that infectious carcasses of migratory birds such as cranes play a central role in the spread of the virus.

Special Dangers and Recommendations

Bird flu is caused by the highly pathogenic virus HPAIV (H5N1), which is often fatal for birds. This is not only a problem for wild birds, but also for agriculture. Given the current situation, over 200,000 animals from sources of infection have already been killed in many regions in order to prevent the virus from spreading further. In Bavaria, there have recently been outbreaks in various poultry farms where infected animals were found. This includes a goose fattening operation in Simbach that is affected. The minister sees the situation as serious and is calling for increased protective measures and increased reporting of dead animals. Tagesschau.de points out that combating animal diseases is primarily the responsibility of the federal states, with the federal government providing support.

Caring for animals and agricultural concerns is at the heart of the effort, but public health cannot be ignored either. Although it is theoretically possible for the virus to be transmitted to humans, there is currently no increased risk of serious illness. However, it is strongly recommended to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report them to the responsible authorities. A certain degree of caution is therefore advised, especially for those who frequently come into contact with wild birds or poultry.

The situation remains tense and it is expected that the authorities will have to remain alert to contain the spread of this dangerous virus. During these turbulent times, it is important to stay informed and cautious to protect both local wildlife and agriculture.