Bird flu is spreading: almost a million animals are at risk!

Bird flu is spreading: almost a million animals are at risk!

Bird flu is a hot topic in Germany at the moment, especially in North Rhine-Westphalia, where the number of affected animals is steadily increasing. According to current reports, the number of farm animals killed in Germany is now almost one million. This is mainly due to the precautionary measures taken against avian influenza, which is increasingly spreading WDR reported.

The latest outbreaks, which have been officially confirmed in several cities in North Rhine-Westphalia such as Delbrück, Essen and Duisburg since the beginning of October, are particularly worrying. Several dead wild birds were also discovered in the Wesel district, with at least six cases of suspected avian influenza diagnosed. A clear indication that the virus not only affects poultry, but also wild birds, which play a central role in transmission. The Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI) assesses the risk for poultry farms and zoos as “high”.

The danger of contact between wild birds and breeding animals

The president of the Central Association of the German Poultry Industry, Hans-Peter Goldnick, described the situation as “extraordinarily early,” as the increase in cases this year began early in the fall. The virus usually follows a seasonal course, with cases typically increasing from autumn onwards. Contact between wild birds and breeding animals remains a major problem, as the virus can spread extremely quickly in confined conditions. Transmission occurs primarily through feces and excreta or contact with carrion from diseased animals.

Recent outbreaks suggest the danger remains. In particular, nine outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAIV) H5 have already been detected in domestic poultry in Germany in the period from January 1st to 31st, 2024. This also includes laying hen farms and turkey fattening flocks, all of which are affected. An indication that the situation must be taken seriously and active measures must be taken to avert further disaster.

The look ahead

The situation remains tense and the authorities are called upon. But there is hope: current monitoring and rapid response to outbreaks can help prevent anything worse from happening. Bird flu reminds us once again how important precautionary measures are, especially when it comes to our animal populations.

It remains to be seen how the situation will develop further. But one thing is clear: those responsible are working hard to keep an eye on the situation and get the spread of bird flu under control. The protection of our farm animals is our top priority and this is an issue that concerns us all.