Confirmed Bird Flu Outbreak in Karlsruhe Prompts Mass Culling

Authorities order the culling of 140 birds after H5N1 cases are confirmed, with strict biosecurity measures implemented to prevent further spread.

The bird flu outbreak in Karlsruhe County has led to the culling of 140 birds, following confirmation of H5N1 in two deceased chickens from a local bird park.
A general directive for poultry owners in Forst and Hambrücken mandates immediate housing of birds and bans poultry markets and exhibitions.
Experts urge biosecurity measures, including preventing contact between domestic birds and wild birds, and protecting feed and water sources from contamination.
Two local parks housing rare and protected bird species are under quarantine, with varying measures of culling, isolation, and further testing underway.
The H5N1 virus, identified as a potential pandemic risk, has caused significant animal losses globally and occasional human infections, though sustained human-to-human transmission has not occurred.