Avian influenza is spreading: first cases in the Altötting district!

Avian influenza is spreading: first cases in the Altötting district!

Concerns about avian influenza are increasing in the region. On October 23rd, an infected wild goose was discovered in Kirchweidach. Unfortunately, the animal was so weak that it had to be euthanized. This was the first confirmed case of the current wave of avian influenza in the Altötting district, and the news has caused alarming waves, as the neighboring Mühldorf district is also already reporting its first cases. There, five dead greylag geese were also found at the Jettenbach dam, whose investigations revealed evidence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) of the H5N1 subtype, as pnp.de reports.

But how did this worrying situation come about? The first outbreak of avian influenza in Bavaria was officially confirmed on October 9, 2025 in a goose farm in the Dingolfing-Landau district. The Friedrich Löffler Institute has recognized the presence of the H5N1 virus, raising alarm bells. Outbreaks in poultry farms in Germany are increasing throughout October, while at the same time there are high levels of detection of H5N1 in wild birds, especially cranes. What is particularly worrying is the expected increase in the number of cases in both wild birds and kept birds in the coming weeks, as LGL Bayern reports.

Protective measures and precautions

Given the increasing number of cases, it is essential to take preventive measures. The experts recommend paying attention to biosecurity measures to avoid contact between domestic poultry and wild birds. Specifically, this means: Vehicles and equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after transporting poultry. Pet owners must be particularly vigilant and contact a veterinarian immediately if any symptoms appear. In the event of an outbreak, the affected birds must be killed and exclusion zones must be set up to provide comprehensive protection.

The LGL has also established wild bird monitoring in Bavaria to ensure early detection of cases. Even though HPAI viruses are considered potentially zoonotic, no transmissions to humans in Germany have been reported to date, which represents a certain consolation given the situation. However, vigilance remains necessary, particularly for exposed groups, as the risk of zoonotic influenza transmission is considered moderate.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding avian influenza poses high risks for animal husbandry in Bavaria. Monitoring and proactive measures are essential to contain the spread of the virus. Given the current situation, both farmers and authorities are being asked to show a good hand in ensuring animal health and ultimately public health. Further developments will be followed with the greatest attention.