Avian influenza risk rises during crane migration in Germany

Experts from the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) are warning of an increased risk of avian influenza (H5N1) outbreaks during the autumn crane migration. The risk is particularly high at locations such as the Kelbra Reservoir on the border of Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt, where thousands of cranes are expected to rest.

Last year, thousands of cranes died from H5N1 infections at these sites, and hundreds of thousands of livestock had to be culled, resulting in significant economic losses. The virus was also detected in wild birds and one poultry farm during the previous summer.

To mitigate the risk of transmission, the FLI advises poultry farmers to strictly adhere to biosecurity measures. The virus can be spread not only by infected birds but also through contaminated shoes, clothing, equipment, vehicles, feed, or water. Maintaining hygiene between outdoor areas, stables, and feed storage is critical to preventing the spread to domestic flocks.