Poultry accommodation is mandatory: Harburg district reacts to bird flu!

Poultry accommodation is mandatory: Harburg district reacts to bird flu!

The danger of bird flu is sounding the alarm: From October 30, 2025, poultry will be required to be kept in stables in the entire Harburg district. Thorsten Völker, head of the migration, order and consumer protection department, emphasizes that owners with more than 50 animals are particularly affected. They must keep their poultry flocks in closed stables or under special protective devices in order to minimize the risk of transmission from wild birds. These measures are not only important but also urgent as several cases of dying cranes have been reported in recent days.

The protective devices must have a closed, protruding cover and a side barrier with a mesh size of no more than 25 mm. Smaller businesses that keep fewer than 50 animals are exempt from the stable requirement. These small-scale farms are generally less at risk because they excrete less virus and usually have no trade connections. Nevertheless, it is recommended that biosecurity measures be taken here and voluntary housing should be considered.

Transmission risks and recommendations for action

Around 80 migratory birds in the Harburg district are currently being examined for signs of bird flu. So far, two cranes have tested positive, but there is no proven outbreak in the district's poultry farms. Poultry farmers are asked to observe any abnormalities in their animals and to report any cases of illness to the veterinary office immediately. This also applies to animal owners in small businesses, who also have to register their address and the number of animals kept.

The veterinary office also appeals to walkers and pet owners to avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds. Birds found dead should be reported immediately to the veterinary service to prevent further spread of the virus. Avian influenza is a highly contagious animal disease that affects both poultry and wild birds and can cause serious illness. There is currently no treatment or approved vaccine for infected birds, while human disease is considered extremely rare and usually requires close contact with infected animals.

For the future, it is important that poultry products that are heated can be consumed safely. However, people need to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions to ensure the health of their animals and therefore their own safety.