Bird flu in the Neunkirchen district: Instructions for protective measures

Bird flu in the Neunkirchen district: Instructions for protective measures

In the district of Neunkirchen, there are initially no cases of poultry plague, also known as bird flu. Despite the worries, agriculture and chicken maintenance remain active. However, the chairman of the district farmers' chamber, Thomas Handler, emphasizes the need for precautionary measures to prevent the disease possible. "With as of November 13, 2024, there was no case from poultry plague in the district," he said. Due to outbreaks in other regions of Austria, Neunkirchen was classified as a "area with increased risk".

In order to protect the laying hens and poultry fattening companies, Handler asks all poultry owners to adhere to the applicable security measures in order to minimize the risk of an outbreak.

risk areas and security measures

The classification as a risk area affects areas near water, since these places serve wild birds as resting places. Dead water or birds of prey that are found must be reported to the district administrative authority immediately. Touching or taking these birds is strictly prohibited.

• ducks and geese should be kept separate from other poultry to avoid any contact.
• Feeding and drinking the poultry must take place within safe areas to prevent contact with wild birds.
• Ritting pigeons may only be trained near their strokes under certain conditions.
• The cleaning and disinfection of all means of transport and tools must be carried out particularly carefully.
• In the event of suspicion of a plague or unusual mortality, the district administrative authority must be informed immediately.

poultry holder should immediately notify the veterinary authorities when the feed and water absorption or an increased mortality rate. These quick messages are crucial to effectively control outbreaks.

reporting obligation for poultry holders

In order to prevent the spread of the poultry plague in the district, comprehensive recording of the poultry is important. Even small stocks, such as five chickens in the private garden, must also be reported to the district administrative authority. As a result, necessary examinations can be initiated quickly in the event of an outbreak.

A corresponding online form for the message is available on the Homepage of the Lower Austrian state government. It is likely to be of great benefit to the authorities in order to initiate all the necessary steps on time. The current situation requires maximum vigilance from all holders. More details on the necessary measures can in a comprehensive report on www.meinbezirk.at can be read.