After a new outbreak of avian influenza on a large farm in Ebersbach near Radeburg in the district of Meißen, the entire livestock must be killed. Around 310,000 more animals are affected, according to the Saxon Ministry of Social Affairs. Outbreaks had previously been confirmed in around 80,000 laying hens and later a further 40,000. With evidence of a third outbreak in a further barn, "an exception to the culling requirement stipulated in EU animal health law is no longer possible", it said.
The decision was made by the veterinary office of the district of Meißen following a comprehensive risk assessment. It was supported by a team from the Friedrich Loeffler Institute and the State Animal Disease Control Center. Culling, cleaning and disinfection are carried out by a service provider contracted by the Ministry of Social Affairs.
