Bird flu alarm in the Gifhorn district: Seven cases confirmed!

Bird flu alarm in the Gifhorn district: Seven cases confirmed!

The worrying news came from the Gifhorn district today: Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, has now been officially confirmed. Wild birds are particularly affected, including the majestic cranes. As of November 4th, a total of 44 suspected cases were registered, of which seven samples tested positive. It will be interesting to see the results of further studies carried out by the Friedrich Loeffler Institute. The region is therefore on high alert because the effects of such an illness can be devastating.

The veterinary office has already taken measures to prevent the spread of the virus. This ensures that dead animals are disposed of properly. Fortunately, no outbreak of bird flu has been reported in the district's poultry farms so far. Nevertheless, on October 25th, a comprehensive stable requirement was issued that affects both private and commercial animal husbandry. These include chickens, turkeys, guinea fowl, partridges, pheasants, ratites, quails, ducks and geese.

Affected pet owners on alert

The obligation to keep the stables applies from now on for an indefinite period of time and serves to protect the animals. Those responsible urgently appeal to all poultry farmers: “Please follow the instructions strictly!” It is crucial that animals are protected from contact with wild birds to minimize the risk of infection. Anyone who finds dead birds should immediately report them to the veterinary office by email - without touching the carcasses directly.

Anyone who sees a dead bird is asked to provide a detailed description of the location and contact details veterinaerwesen@landkreis-gifhorn.de to send. It is important to note that sick animals usually cannot be treated or examined because they often retreat to die. The quick notification should enable the carcasses to be picked up quickly.

The next steps

The situation remains tense and requires the cooperation of all those affected. Times like these show how important responsible behavior is in animal husbandry. With the mandatory stable requirement, the Gifhorn district not only wants to protect animals, but also ensure the health of the people in the area. The general order regulating this measure has already been published and will come into force from tomorrow.

It remains to be seen how the situation will develop and whether further measures are necessary. The Gifhorn district is in constant communication with the Friedrich Loeffler Institute in order to keep a close eye on the situation and react in a timely manner. WAZ Online reports on current developments and keeps the population informed.

Please stay alert and keep your animals safe!