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Schleswig-Holstein

Avian influenza is an infectious disease caused by influenza viruses in birds, which can occur particularly in chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese, but also in other poultry, swans and other wild birds. A basic distinction can be made between two groups of avian influenza viruses, the so-called low-pathogenic ("less pathogenic") and the highly pathogenic ("highly pathogenic") influenza viruses. The highly pathogenic influenza viruses (e.g. H5N1) can lead to high animal losses in poultry such as chickens or turkeys. Low pathogenic influenza viruses, on the other hand, often cause little or no signs of illness, as these viruses lack the properties to cause severe disease.

Only infection with highly pathogenic influenza viruses is referred to as avian influenza, which is a highly acute, febrile viral disease. After a short incubation period, the disease progresses rapidly and is usually fatal for the affected animals. Affected animals show symptoms such as high fever, loss of appetite, weakness, listlessness and shortness of breath. Among other things, there is a drastic drop in laying performance.

All poultry farmers in the country must consistently implement the general, legally prescribed protective measures - regardless of the size or purpose of the poultry farm. Corresponding prevention and control measures are contained in European Regulation 2016/429 (EU Animal Health Act), which has been applicable since April 21, 2021, including its various delegated and implementing regulations and the regulation on protection against avian influenza. This includes, among other things, only feeding and watering poultry in places inaccessible to wild birds. Feed, litter and other objects with which poultry may come into contact should be kept out of reach of wild birds. Other biosecurity measures include cleaning and disinfecting clothing, shoes, equipment and vehicles as well as disinfecting hands before entering the poultry house.

Veterinary examinations are also mandatory in the event of an unclear incidence of disease in the herd or increased losses in the herd. If not already done, all poultry holdings that have not yet been registered should be registered with the competent veterinary office and/or the Animal Disease Fund.