Bernburg/Barby. Following the examination of several dead wild birds, avian influenza has been officially confirmed in the Salzlandkreis district. This information was provided by the Salzlandkreis district's specialist service for consumer health protection and veterinary affairs on Friday afternoon. The birds were found at Kiesschacht I in Barby.
"We ask all poultry farmers to ensure compliance with increased biosecurity measures. Once again, animal hygiene and disease prevention are more important than ever. Well-managed aviary systems are highly recommended, as is changing boots after entering and leaving poultry houses and outdoor runs," says specialist service manager Dr Christian Lutter. Due to the current circumstances, the specialist service is not imposing any lockdown or restriction zones or requiring any mandatory reporting. In addition, poultry farmers and hunters should report any unusual changes in their animals and any dead animals found. This can be done at the weekend by calling the control centre on 112 and during the district administration's regular opening hours on +49 3471/6841457. Reports can also be sent by email to vet@kreis-slk.de.
Avian influenza is the infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses. These viruses can infect chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks and wild waterfowl and other birds. The infection very often leads to death in susceptible domestic poultry. Affected wild birds can contribute to the spread of the disease in domestic poultry flocks and wild waterfowl in particular are often asymptomatic carriers and excretors of the virus. However, there is no direct danger to the population in connection with the outbreak of avian influenza.
"We advise poultry farmers to check their animals for changes at least once a day in order to detect any reduced mobility of the animals and a significant increase or decrease in production data more quickly," says veterinarian Christian Lutter. According to him, domestic poultry flocks may only be fed and watered in places inaccessible to wild birds. Feed, bedding and other objects with which poultry may come into contact must therefore also be kept out of the reach of wild birds. Other biosecurity measures include cleaning and disinfecting clothing, shoes, equipment and vehicles as well as disinfecting hands before entering the poultry house.