West Nil virus rages in Schleswig-Holstein: Horses and Birds affected!

West Nil virus rages in Schleswig-Holstein: Horses and Birds affected!

Herzogtum Lauenburg, Deutschland - alarm mood in Schleswig-Holstein! The West Nil virus (WNV) struck again! In the past few weeks, serious infections have been reported to a total of eight horses and two hawks in Schleswig-Holstein. The affected animals come from the districts of Pinneberg, Segeberg, Steinburg, Rendsburg-Eckernförde, Schleswig-Flensburg and the city of Lübeck. The first signs occurred in September and October 2024 and the first cases were already documented in a horse from the Duchy of Lauenburg.

The horses suffered from violent neurological complaints and high fever, which led to the immediate examination. During the study, it turned out that the animals had come into contact with the virus -contaminated blood of mosquitoes - and that fatal: all infected horses were not vaccinated. Tragically, a horse and both hawks did not survive the infection.

machine gun of the mosquitoes

The fatal danger of the West Nil virus spreads rapidly! The virus has had its first appearance in Germany since 2018. Birds are the main hosts, while horses and people act as malfunction. But the stinging bloodsuckers from domestic waters are the decisive link. These transfer the dangerous infection, which only reproduces faster due to persistently warm and moist weather, as the current increase in reports shows. The constant Veterinary Medical Veterinary Medical Medicine (STIKO VET) rely on protective measures and strongly recommends that horses in Schleswig-Holstein also vaccinate horses in Schleswig-Holstein until the next mosquito season in order to counter further outbreaks. Three approved vaccines also offer effective protection against the serious disease courses!

Schleswig-Holstein faces a serious health problem! The transferable cases are increasing and the citizens are required! The Friedrich Loeffler Institute urges the increasing distribution and appeals: "Pay attention to wild birds!". Dead birds are to be safely packed to the veterinary offices to prevent possible spread. Take the opportunity to find out about possible health risks!