Bird flu outbreak! Strict measures in Schwalm-Eder and Marburg

Bird flu outbreak! Strict measures in Schwalm-Eder and Marburg

In Hesse, the situation surrounding bird flu has worsened in the districts of Schwalm-Eder, Marburg and Kassel. Today, October 31, 2025, an outbreak of avian influenza was officially confirmed, leading to comprehensive measures now in force. The authorities are responding with mandatory general orders, which are similar to those in the neighboring Vogelsberg district. Loud nh24.de All poultry farms must now be housed. This also means that events such as poultry shows are no longer allowed to take place.

The measures adopted are comprehensive and affect not only the keeping but also the handling of poultry. The movement ban for poultry is particularly important, which means that no poultry may be moved. It is also important to keep a register of poultry and report the poultry population to the veterinary office. When feeding, owners must ensure that wild birds do not have access. The storage of food and bedding must also be organized with these aspects in mind, and there are strict rules regarding hygiene.

Impact on animal owners

The regulations also emphasize the need for clean protective clothing for all workers, which must be cleaned or disposed of safely. If there are any signs of illness in the herd, it is essential to inform a veterinarian immediately. Suspicious symptoms such as sudden death of animals or a sudden increase in mortality rate must be taken seriously. If three or more dead animals are found within 24 hours in a population of less than 100 animals, action should be taken immediately. For larger holdings, losses of more than 2% are also alarming.

In addition, the authorities prepare citizens for dealing with dead or sick wild birds. It is strongly advised not to touch such animals yourself and to report any findings immediately to the responsible veterinary office. It also says avoiding contact between pets and sick animals is recommended to prevent possible spread of the disease. Dogs must be kept on a leash, especially in nature reserves.

Important information for the public

Citizens in the affected districts are urged to be vigilant and to take all necessary measures seriously. The official websites of the Schwalm-Eder, Marburg-Biedenkopf and Kassel districts provide further information on current developments and necessary requirements.

Bird flu is not only an issue for animal owners, but also affects all citizens in the region. The focus is on preventing the spread of the disease and protecting animal populations. It remains to be hoped that the measures will have the desired effect and that the situation can be brought under control quickly.