Avian influenza continues to spread in the Leipzig district

In the district of Leipzig, avian influenza continues to spread among wild birds. As announced by the district of Leipzig, the Friedrich Löffler Institute (FLI) confirmed two further suspected cases on Tuesday. A red kite found at Lake Zwenkau and a greylag goose from the banks of the Schömbach dam are affected. The results of the national reference laboratory are still pending for three other birds from Borsdorf, Bad Lausick and Frohburg.

The findings show an increasing spatial spread of the virus, it said. Although no kept animals have been affected so far, the district of Haltern urgently advises keeping poultry and other kept birds indoors or in covered, wild bird-proof aviaries. There is currently no obligation to keep birds indoors. The existing order to prohibit poultry exhibitions remains in place. There is no easing of the situation in sight.

A grey goose infected with bird flu was first detected in the district at Lake Markkleeberg at the beginning of November. According to the FLI, the risk of introduction into domestic poultry flocks remains high.

According to the veterinary office, poultry farmers should pay particular attention to hygiene, protect feed and water from wild birds and use their own clothing. In the event of unusual losses in flocks, a veterinary examination is mandatory

Found dead or sick waterfowl, screaming birds or birds of prey should not be touched and should be reported to the veterinary office.