Avian Influenza Detected in Lower Austria
Lower Austria reports the first cases of avian influenza
Wild birds in Lower Austria have recently tested positive for avian influenza, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism. The affected area is the municipality of Großkrut in the district of Mistelbach. As a result of this discovery, a protection and surveillance zone has been established around the infected area, and all poultry farmers within this zone must adhere to specific precautionary measures.
The H5N8 strain has been confirmed
Samples taken from the infected wild birds have been analyzed by the national reference laboratory of the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES) and confirmed to be the highly pathogenic H5N8 strain of avian influenza.
The H5N8 strain is known to be highly contagious among birds, and it has the potential to cause severe illness and death in poultry. However, there is no evidence that this strain poses a risk to human health.
Poultry farmers urged to remain vigilant
The Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism has urged all poultry farmers in Lower Austria to remain vigilant and to implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza. These measures include:
- Preventing contact between domestic poultry and wild birds
- Using protective clothing and footwear when working with poultry
- Regularly cleaning and disinfecting poultry houses and equipment
- Reporting any signs of illness in poultry to the authorities immediately
In addition, the Ministry has banned the movement of poultry and poultry products from the affected area to prevent the further spread of the virus.
The situation is being monitored closely
The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are working to contain the outbreak. Further testing is being carried out to determine the extent of the infection and to identify any other areas that may be affected. The Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism will provide regular updates on the situation as it develops.
