First case of avian influenza in cranes in the Hochsauerland district!

First case of avian influenza in cranes in the Hochsauerland district!

A report of a confirmed case of avian influenza in a wild bird is currently making the rounds in the Hochsauerland district. A dead crane was discovered in Bestwig-Ostwig on October 28th and then tested at the Westphalia Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office. The devastating result of a positive avian influenza analysis came back from the Friedrich Löffler Institute (FLI) last weekend, November 8th and 9th. Sauerlandkurier reports that this is the first confirmed case in the district and concern is growing.

But it doesn't stop at this single incident. Another suspected case involves a buzzard, which was also found near the crane. Initial test results also show a positive result, with further samples being sent to the FLI for final confirmation. Public awareness of avian influenza, also known as avian influenza, could not be greater.

Call for caution

The district veterinary office is closely monitoring the situation and is giving clear recommendations to poultry farmers, especially in Bestwig. It is advisable to put the animals in stables as a precaution and to strengthen security measures. To date, there are no restriction zones or stable requirements in the Hochsauerland district, but poultry farmers are requested to consistently follow the following protective measures to prevent infection from wild birds:

• Schutzkleidung und separates Schuhwerk vor Betreten der Geflügelställe anlegen.
• Desinfektionseinrichtungen für Schuhwerk an Stall-Eingängen installieren.
• Vor dem Betreten der Ställe die Hände waschen und desinfizieren.
• Das Geflügel nur an Orten füttern, die für Wildvögel unzugänglich sind.
• Darauf verzichten, Geflügel mit Oberflächenwasser zu tränken, das von Wildvögeln genutzt werden kann.
• Futter und Einstreu so lagern, dass sie für Wildvögel unzugänglich sind.

These measures apply to both commercial and hobby poultry farming and are important to avoid infection with the highly contagious virus. The virus is particularly dangerous for chickens and turkeys and results in high death rates. Waterfowl, on the other hand, are less likely to become ill, but can excrete the virus. It is advisable to report dead wild birds to the veterinary office, a practice that is not only important for the health of the animals but also contributes to risk assessment in the region [Hochsauerlandkreis].

Supraregional developments

In the broader context, it is important to keep an eye on the supra-regional effects of avian influenza. The situation in other parts of Europe is currently tense. Proven cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza began in Carinthia at the end of September and have been spreading to other federal states since October. While Austria has so far been spared from outbreaks in 2025, there have been increasing reports of avian influenza outbreaks in large flocks in Germany and Italy since the beginning of October Consumer Health.

The Europe-wide situation makes it clear how important preventative measures are to protect domestic poultry from the virus. Increased vigilance, especially when there is contact between wild birds and domestic poultry, is essential. Even in areas with increased risk, biosecurity measures must be strictly implemented to protect native populations.