Berlin, Germany – In a move described as a drastic precautionary measure, German authorities announced the culling of more than 15,000 birds, including ducks, geese, chickens, roosters, and wild cranes. This came after new outbreaks of bird flu were detected in several northern provinces.
The German Ministry of Agriculture stated that the decision came after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of infections. The infections were of a highly contagious strain of the virus on several farms. This prompted authorities to impose strict emergency measures, including the culling of infected birds and those in contact with them, and the complete disinfection of the affected farms.
The ministry confirmed that the mass cull is part of a preemptive plan. The goal is to prevent the spread of the infection to other farms and avoid greater economic losses in the poultry sector. Poultry is one of the country’s most important food production sectors.
These measures coincided with a heightened veterinary alert level across Germany. This came amid warnings from animal health organizations that the virus could spread to neighboring countries if the situation is not brought under control quickly.
In contrast, animal rights activists expressed their dismay at the “mass killing.” They called for more humane alternative solutions. The government emphasized that food safety and public health were paramount.
