Bird flu warning: Hesse on alert willingness for poultry holders!
Bird flu warning: Hesse on alert willingness for poultry holders!
The Hessian Ministry of Agriculture urgently warned of the poultry plague on January 10, 2025. The disease, also known as "bird flu" and caused by the highly pathogenic influenza virus H5N1, is currently spreading. Finally, an outbreak was found at a Canadagans in Frankfurt, which the poultry holders in the region alerted.
In view of the high risk of infection for house poultry, the ministry advises strict organic security measures. In particular, contacts between house and wild birds should be avoided. Wild birds must not have access to food, litter or other objects that come into contact with house poultry. In addition, the poultry should not drink water that is also used by wild birds.bio -security measures and prevention
The poultry holders are asked to carry out regular controls of their stocks and to immediately consult a veterinarian in the event of illness or death. Citizens are also called to report the dead or sick water poultry such as swans and geese to the veterinary authority. In the case of songbirds or pigeons, it is important to pay attention to just report several dead finds in one place.
The Situation becomes particularly dangerous due to direct contact with sick wild birds. Therefore, it is advised to take part in poultry or bird exhibitions only under strict security precautions. A 21-day maternity period between visits to several exhibitions is also recommended to minimize the risk of spreading the poultry plague.
Current outbreaks in Germany
Current data show that in January 2024 nine outbreaks of HPAIV H5 were registered with house poultry. Among other things, four laying hen companies and several private postures were affected. In the same period, 31 cases were documented in wild birds, mainly with nunning geese in the Wadden Sea, whereby the H5N1 virus was confirmed in most cases.
In addition, there have been the identification of four new genotypes of the HPAIV since November 2023, which also complicated the situation. The dominantly proven genotype was recorded in September 2023, while other genotypes were active until the first half of 2024.
The poultry plague is a difficult form of aviary influenza, which is associated with acute diseases and can spread rapidly. So far, no infection of humans are known in Germany with the virus. In the event of symptoms after contact with dead or sick wild birds, it is strongly advised to see a doctor. In these worrying times, it requires special protection and hygiene of animal owners and the population.
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