An increasing number of poultry farms in Germany are experiencing outbreaks of avian influenza. Since the beginning of September, the Friedrich Loeffler Institute has recorded approximately 31 outbreaks of the virus in livestock farms, in addition to 131 cases of avian influenza in wild birds.
The Friedrich Loeffler Institute pointed out that this autumn is witnessing an unusually early and rapid spread. As a result, more than 500,000 chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys have been culled. A large number of cases have been recorded especially in eastern Germany and Lower Saxony.
According to the Institute, avian influenza is a highly contagious and rapidly spreading disease that affects many types of birds and poultry, causing their death. The Institute stated in a press release that widespread transmission is expected in the near future due to migratory activity, and the risk is classified as “high.”
How dangerous is avian influenza?
Stöhr warned of the possibility of another pandemic, saying: “In principle, the H5N1 virus has all the prerequisites to cause a pandemic.”
He stressed that the risk of human infection remains very low so far. Stöhr advised: “Anyone who comes across dead animals, for example, while walking, should not touch them, maintain a safe distance, keep their dog away, and inform the competent veterinary office.”
With the rise in infections among poultry, Stöhr explained that “this means that there are now countless increasing opportunities for the virus to transfer and adapt to humans. This risk should not be underestimated.”
At the same time, good precautions can be taken to prevent an outbreak of such a virus. He added: “There have always been epidemics, and good epidemic planning is the best preparation.” Precautions can be taken through livestock monitoring, development of new vaccines, and the development of global pandemic plans.
