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Avian influenza threatens Northeim: mandatory stables could soon come!
In the Northeim district there is a risk of compulsory housing for poultry due to avian influenza. Current developments and protective measures are explained.
Avian influenza threatens Northeim: mandatory stables could soon come!
In recent days, avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has once again spread rapidly in Germany. The situation is becoming increasingly worrying, particularly in the Northeim district. Compulsory housing for commercial poultry is being considered here after the virus was detected in a dead crane in the southern Harz, reports HNA. However, so far no positive findings have been found in the Northeim district. The district veterinarian, Dr. Katrin Göbel is following the situation closely and appeals to poultry farmers to take precautionary measures seriously.
In Lower Saxony, the development is already having its first consequences: In the Gifhorn district, a stable requirement was imposed for the entire region due to confirmed evidence of bird flu in the district. Several other districts, including Nienburg and Göttingen, also reported suspected cases of cranes. The pressure on poultry farmers is growing and the Ministry of Agriculture is appealing to farmers to comply with safety regulations to ensure biosecurity. Due to the intense bird migration at this time of year, the situation could become even more serious, especially since the H5N1 variant often leads to severe disease and is fatal in many cases.
Precautions for poultry farmers
- Zutritt zu Stall und Auslauf nur für befugte Personen
- Benutzung von betriebseigener Schutzkleidung
- Desinfektion von Händen und Schuhen vor dem Betreten der Stallungen
- Vermeidung von Besuchen anderer Geflügelbestände
- Stallungen in gutem baulichen Zustand halten
- Regelmäßige Bekämpfung von Schadnager
- Verwendung von Eierkartons nur einmal
- Bei Auffälligkeiten sofort einen Tierarzt kontaktieren
In addition, aviaries should be covered to prevent contact with wild birds and their droppings. Alternatively, domestic poultry can also be kept in closed barns, garages or greenhouses.
The current situation and further outbreaks
The animal disease has already led to numerous agricultural losses this year. In Baden-Württemberg, for example, 15,000 animals from a poultry farm had to be killed. Current estimates speak of over 200,000 animals killed nationwide, including chickens, geese, ducks and turkeys. According to a report by the daily news Many wild birds, especially cranes, were also affected, with around 2,000 cranes dying in the autumn alone.
Due to the increasing number of cases, Federal Agriculture Minister Alois Rainer appeals to the population to avoid contact with sick or dead birds. Dog owners in particular are warned not to let their animals run free in areas with cranes.
The situation is tense and authorities are closely monitoring developments. If you encounter a sick or dead bird, please inform the responsible veterinary office immediately to prevent further spread. Every contribution counts in bringing the situation under control and averting potential damage.