Red alert in the Bad Dürkheim district: bird flu H5N1 confirmed!

Red alert in the Bad Dürkheim district: bird flu H5N1 confirmed!

There is currently a worrying development in the tranquil Bad Dürkheim district: Avian influenza, better known as bird flu, has been officially confirmed. Reports from Weekly newspaper reporter show that the State Investigation Office (LUA) has already tested positive for samples from two dead cranes. The Friedrich Löffler Institute (FLI) has now confirmed the highly pathogenic subtype H5N1.

A total of six dead wild birds were sampled in the region, and recently another crane near Freinsheim also showed a positive result. The situation remains tense as further laboratory results are still pending. In this context, the veterinary office calls on all poultry farmers to be careful and strongly recommends keeping their animals stable.

Hygiene is the be-all and end-all

To keep the virus away, hygiene and biosecurity measures are essential. “The last thing we want is for the disease to spread further,” said a statement from the veterinary office. Citizens are also asked to report dead waterfowl, particularly cranes, storks, herons and other affected species. Reports can be made conveniently by email or telephone to the responsible veterinary office, which will take care of the professional disposal of the carcasses.

It is important to know that contact with dead birds should be avoided to prevent further spread of the virus. H5N1 is usually not suspected in isolated songbirds, pigeons or crows, so these can be disposed of with household waste unless there are more than five carcasses in one place.

Over 800 poultry farms in focus

There are more than 800 poultry farms registered in the Bad Dürkheim district, all of which are subject to registration. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reassures that the risk to people is low and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) also gives the all-clear regarding infection through consumption of poultry meat or eggs.

While poultry farmers in the region have to be vigilant, the Bad Dürkheim district is in contact with neighboring districts to advise on suitable protective measures. For further information, poultry farmers can refer to the veterinary office's website.

This alarming news reminds us how vulnerable our wildlife can be and how important it is to take action together. Let’s be vigilant and act responsibly for the benefit of our poultry populations and ultimately our community!