Honor badge for blood donors and alarm because of African swine fever!

Honor badge for blood donors and alarm because of African swine fever!

On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Schleswig-Holstein has several exciting messages to offer. The Minister of Health Kerstin von der Kecken (CDU) will present the badge of honor to twelve committed blood donors in Kiel. These loyal donors have already donated blood more than 100 times, which is not only an impressive performance, but also represents an important contribution to filling up the blood reserves before the upcoming summer vacation. The DRK blood donation service North-East emphasizes the urgency that the population should become more active to ensure blood supply, especially during this time when many people travel.

But these are not the only news that makes the round. In Ellerhoop there was a devastating fire that made a family home in the Pinneberg district uninhabitable. The fire broke out in a utility room at around 0.30 a.m. on Tuesday night. Fortunately, the four family members were able to get to safety unharmed. The fire brigade was busy with around 40 emergency services over two hours to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to surrounding buildings.

Small plane crash in the Segeberg State Forest

Also on Monday evening a tragic accident in the Segeberg State Forest, where a small plane crashed. The plane had previously been reported as missing, and with the help of rescue workers, the wreck could be found around midnight. There was a dead man in the machine whose identity is not yet known. The exact circumstances of the crash are also still unclear, which is why the Federal Flight Accident Investigation has now taken over the investigation.

gold jackal on Sylt and the African swine plague

In the wildlife, a gold jackal on Sylt causes a stir. After he was held responsible for the crack of several sheep, he has not been spotted since May 22nd. It remains unclear whether the animal has left the island or whether it continues to roam the region.

A serious topic, on the other hand, is the African swine plague (ASP), which has now been proven in six federal states. Schleswig-Holstein emphasizes the importance of the existing security measures. State Secretary for Agriculture Anne Benett-Sturies calls for a stronger hunt for wild boar, as this is a central aspect in the fight against the spread of the ASP. The ASP is a highly contagious animal disease that affects both wild and domestic pigs and has devastating economic consequences for farmers. The symptoms are cruel and the death rate of sick animals is almost 90%. An effective vaccine against ASP does not exist, so that preventive measures, such as the creation of protection zones and compliance with strict hygiene rules, are essential.

It is important for farmers to ensure organic security and to keep an eye on the animal population. The topic ultimately affects everyone, because the effects of the ASP can affect the pig market and meat availability. The public is asked to pay more attention to the origin of meat products and to report any suspected cases immediately to prevent the spread of this plague.