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Second wave of avian influenza: 24,000 turkeys have to go in the Vechta district!
A new outbreak of bird flu has led to the culling of 24,000 turkeys in the Vechta district. Protection zones are set up.
Second wave of avian influenza: 24,000 turkeys have to go in the Vechta district!
Worrying news regarding avian influenza has emerged in the Vechta district. After a positive rapid test on October 26th in a fattening turkey farm, measures were taken immediately. In the past few days, 14,600 turkeys have had to be killed to prevent the virus from spreading further. On October 27th, the pathogen was also detected in another farm in Bösel, affecting 10,000 animals. According to OM Online, a total of 24,000 turkeys have to be culled to contain the animal disease.
In order to get the new outbreak under control, the district plans to set up a protection zone with a 3 km radius and a surveillance zone with a 10 km radius, valid from October 29th at midnight. This means significant restrictions for businesses within these zones. These must comply with special requirements for animal husbandry as well as for the trade and movement of animals.
Biosecurity measures and compulsory installation
The situation is serious because from October 28th, strict stable requirements will apply to all poultry farms with more than 50 animals. “The animals must be kept in closed stables or protected facilities,” said the district. This doesn't just apply to turkeys, but also includes chickens, ducks, geese and many other species of birds. The district calls on all holding companies to adhere to strict biosecurity measures and to report suspected cases immediately. The population is also advised to avoid contact with wild birds, especially cranes.
The situation in Lower Saxony is not an isolated case, as many regions are struggling with similarly critical bird flu outbreaks. Fortunately, no cases of wild birds have been reported in the Harburg district so far, but the population is urged to be careful and monitor any abnormalities. The Harburg District has also made it clear that every poultry farmer must report their animals to the veterinary office in order to get a better overview of the risk situation.
In view of these developments, it is important that the population works together and reports suspected cases of sick or dead animals to the responsible authorities. This is the only way to contain the spread of this dangerous animal disease.