Alarm in the Harburg district: Bird flu endangers poultry farmers!

Alarm in the Harburg district: Bird flu endangers poultry farmers!

With the autumn bird migration we not only receive colorful air shows, but also serious news for poultry farmers in the region. The veterinary service in the Harburg district warns urgently about the highly pathogenic avian influenza, better known as bird flu. The current movements of millions of migratory birds, particularly cranes and white storks, could pose a serious threat to our poultry populations as some of these birds could carry the highly contagious virus. Seevetal Aktuell reports that many dead migratory birds have already been found in the wetlands along the Elbe and are being examined.

Reports of dead wild birds are increasing, increasing concern among poultry farmers. Above all, the risk factor of infection through direct contact with wild birds is high. The Friedrich Löffler Institute (FLI) has classified the risk of avian influenza in the region as high, even though no outbreaks have been detected in the poultry flocks in the Harburg district to date. A positive light in this gloomy situation is that the veterinary service is confident and appeals: “Stick to the biosecurity measures!”

Biosecurity measures in focus

What exactly are these biosecurity measures that are so important for poultry farmers? The recommendations are clear and comprehensible. First of all, domestic poultry and wild birds should not have any contact. This means that the enclosure must be well secured and walkers and pets should keep their distance from dead or sick wild birds. Poultry farmers should also regularly monitor their poultry for signs of illness, such as increased mortality or loss of appetite. If any abnormalities are noticed, an immediate report to the veterinary office is essential, as the Kreizeitung Wochenblatt emphasizes.

In addition, there is a reporting requirement for all poultry keeping operations, regardless of whether they are large businesses or hobby farmers. Poultry farmers are called upon to report their stocks, including the number and type of animals, to the responsible veterinary office. This is particularly important so that quick measures can be taken in the event of an infection. Information sheets on these biosecurity measures are provided by the Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety.

An appeal to the community

The veterinary service has already canceled several poultry-related events to minimize the risk of the virus being introduced. All poultry farmers are called upon to keep a close eye on not only their own animals, but also the entire operation. It is clear that the disease poses a danger to humans only in the case of close contact with infected animals. Especially because there is no risk when heated poultry products are prepared properly.

Finally, all that remains to be said is that the right preparation can make a big difference. If everyone affected works together and follows the recommended protective measures, together we can help stop the spread of avian influenza. Keep your eyes open and protect our poultry stocks!