Bird flu alarm in Hamburg: 70 cases discovered, Alster swans saved!

Bird flu alarm in Hamburg: 70 cases discovered, Alster swans saved!

The alarm signals have been red in Hamburg since September: Over 70 cases of bird flu (H5N1) have been recorded in wild birds, including cranes, wild geese and even birds of prey. However, according to n-tv, the spread remains limited to wild animals and to date no cases have been detected among poultry farmers. Interestingly, the actual number of birds affected could be much higher, as there are often multiple affected animals behind each confirmed case.

The swan system in the Hanseatic city has been particularly challenged in recent weeks. Between mid-October and early December, over 170 missions took place, in which a total of 117 animals were collected. These efforts sometimes took place late into the night and also on weekends. All collected birds were sent to the Hygiene Institute in Hamburg for examination. What is particularly pleasing is that no Alster swans, which are housed in the wildlife station in winter, are affected by the virus. This is also reported by the n-tv website.

The danger of bird flu

Avian influenza, also known as avian influenza, has emerged as a serious problem since the late 19th century. The H5N1 virus, which has been spreading in Europe for several years, is particularly dangerous, first among wild birds, but then also in factory farms. As Bayerischer Rundfunk reports, the outbreak, which was expected to begin in the summer of 2022, led to the worst epidemic in Europe, affecting 37 countries and killing almost 50 million animals.

Transmission from birds to mammals, including raccoons and foxes, has also been observed. Experts are concerned: Although transmission to humans is extremely rare, human-to-human transmission has been ruled out in the past. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) currently considers the risk for the population in Germany to be low. Nevertheless, the clear recommendation remains to avoid contact with sick or dead birds.

Situation in Germany and outlook

There have currently been almost 2,000 positive wild birds in Germany since the beginning of December. There are also thirteen confirmed outbreaks in poultry farms and zoos. The outbreaks in Germany that have been registered since the end of October 2025 are usually of the A(H5N1) subtype. The RKI points out that infections in humans are still extremely rare. There are no confirmed cases in Germany so far, and the last case of a person infected with the virus has not yet been recorded.

The experts advise taking protective measures if unavoidable contact with wild birds or infected poultry occurs. How the situation develops remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the situation will continue to be monitored closely and the responsible authorities are alerted. The tests and protective measures in the region help to protect the health of animals and people.

More information on the topics can be found at n-tv, Bayerischer Broadcasting and [Robert Koch Institute](https://www.rki.de/DE/Themen/Infectious Diseases/Infectious Diseases-A-Z/Z/ZoonoticInfluenza/Vogelgrippe.html).