Bird flu: turkey fatteners affected for the second time
The bird flu outbreak in a flock of 25,000 turkeys in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim is already the second this year in the company, according to a district spokesperson. Once again, one of two flocks on a farm in the municipality of Lewitzrand was affected, the spokesperson told the German Press Agency on Thursday. The other flock had tested negative, as in March. At that time, 17,000 animals had to be killed, now 25,000.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture in Schwerin, the virus is the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus of the H5N1 subtype. "It is to be feared that the outbreak will gain further momentum in view of the upcoming cold season," said Agriculture Minister Till Backhaus (SPD).
At the end of October, the district appealed to poultry farmers to strictly adhere to the safety measures with reference to the autumn bird migration. This includes, for example, preventing any direct or indirect contact between wild birds and domestic poultry. Street and stable clothing, including shoes, should be kept strictly separate to prevent the introduction of the virus.
The outbreak of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, specifically the H5N1 subtype, poses a threat to the health of not only the affected turkeys but also other animals susceptible to avian flu. To prevent further spread, strict adherence to safety measures, such as separating wild birds from domestic poultry and maintaining clean clothing, is crucial for the overall health of the avian population in the district.
Source: www.dpa.com
