Avian flu

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as avian influenza or "bird flu", is a highly contagious viral disease caused by highly pathogenic influenza viruses. The animal disease primarily affects chickens and turkeys, but many other birds (e.g. waterfowl and birds of prey) are also susceptible.

Avian influenza viruses are spread worldwide. As waterfowl (especially ducks) are often carriers of the virus without showing signs of illness themselves, they represent a natural virus reservoir.

There are a number of possible transmission factors. Entry via personal and vehicle traffic, the stabling of animals, manure, feed or water is just as likely as entry via wild birds. Wild waterfowl, which do not contract the disease themselves, are often virus carriers as they can spread the virus over long distances.

Avian influenza is a highly acute, febrile viral disease that is usually fatal for the affected animals. After an incubation period of a few hours to a maximum of 21 days, the affected animals show symptoms such as high fever, loss of appetite, weakness, listlessness and shortness of breath. There is a drastic drop in laying performance.

The influenza viruses currently spreading among wild birds in Germany are strongly adapted to birds. Transmission to humans is therefore unlikely. Nevertheless, dead wild birds should not be touched with bare hands. If symptoms of illness such as respiratory diseases or inflammation of the conjunctiva occur after contact with dead or apparently ill wild birds, a doctor should be consulted.

HPAI is a notifiable animal disease that leads to a serious illness with high animal losses in some cases. In addition to the suffering of the animals, it can also lead to major economic losses for poultry farmers.

The following measures can help to protect poultry:

• No contact with wild birds
• Keep feed, litter and other objects with which poultry come into contact inaccessible to wild birds
• No feeding of food and kitchen waste or eggshells
• Secure the barn against unauthorised access
• Restriction of passenger transport
• Wearing protective clothing
• Disinfect hands and shoes before entering the barn
• No visits from other poultry flocks
• Good structural condition of the stables
• Regular rodent control

Further information can be found on the website of the Hesse State Farm.

The discovery of dead or sick animals - especially waterfowl and birds of prey - must be reported to the veterinary office on 05631 - 954 1753.

As a rule, only birds fall ill, but other animals can spread the virus. Therefore, direct contact between pets, especially dogs and cats, and dead or sick animals should be avoided.

The discovery of dead or sick animals - especially waterfowl and birds of prey - must be reported to the veterinary office on 05631 - 954 1753. The animal will then be taken to the Hessian State Laboratory in Giessen for further examination. Songbirds or pigeons found dead should only be reported if several dead birds of these species are found in one place.