Avian Influenza Detected in Bavaria: Authorities Enforce Culling and Safety Measures

The presence of avian influenza (H5N1 subtype) has been confirmed in a poultry farm located in the district of Dingolfing-Landau, Lower Bavaria. This detection marks the first confirmed case of avian influenza among poultry in Bavaria for the current autumn season. The affected farm housed approximately 3,000 birds, with initial cases identified in five geese.

Following the confirmation of the virus, regional veterinary authorities swiftly implemented mandatory containment protocols in accordance with European Union regulations. The farm in question was immediately placed under quarantine to prevent any further spread of the infection. In alignment with established animal health and disease control guidelines, the culling of the entire poultry population on the premises was initiated to mitigate the risk of additional transmission.

Diagnostic confirmation was obtained from the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, a leading federal research institute for animal health in Germany. In the event of an official classification as highly pathogenic avian influenza, regulatory procedures require the establishment of a protective zone encompassing a minimum radius of three kilometers around the affected site. Additionally, a surveillance zone extending at least ten kilometers from the farm is to be designated. The specific boundaries and operational measures within these zones are determined by the local district authorities through formal directives.

To strengthen efforts against the potential spread of avian influenza, ongoing monitoring of wild bird populations continues throughout Bavaria. This surveillance is aimed at the early identification of any further infections among wild avian species, given their role as potential carriers of the virus. Regional responses are regularly adjusted based on a central risk assessment, ensuring that all interventions remain proportional to the evolving situation.

It is important to note that, to date, there have been no documented cases of human infection with the H5N1 virus through direct contact with infected birds or their excretions in Germany. Nevertheless, the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety has issued a public advisory urging residents not to touch any dead birds they encounter. Members of the public are encouraged to promptly report such findings to local authorities to facilitate timely investigation and response.

The introduction of stringent biosecurity and containment measures aims to curtail the spread of avian influenza among both domesticated and wild birds. These efforts are particularly significant given the role of migratory birds in the possible dissemination of the virus across regions. Ongoing cooperation between health, veterinary, and environmental agencies remains essential to address the current outbreak and safeguard both animal and public health throughout Bavaria.