Probable New Outbreak of Bird Flu in Harz District - Bird flu outbreak suspected in Germany's Harz district after turkey deaths

A suspected outbreak of bird flu has emerged in the Harz district. Preliminary tests found the virus in dead turkeys at a farm in Osterwieck. Authorities have now taken urgent steps to contain the potential spread.

The first signs of trouble appeared when several turkeys died at a farm in Osterwieck. Early testing pointed to bird flu, though official confirmation remains pending. As a precaution, all poultry on the affected property will be culled.

The Harz district has responded swiftly. A mandatory indoor housing order now applies to all poultry farms in the area. Poultry keepers must also enforce strict hygiene rules and secure coops to prevent contact with wild birds.

To further limit risks, all poultry shows, markets, and bird-related events have been banned across the district. These measures aim to stop the virus from spreading while investigations continue.

The situation is being closely monitored, though no official cases have been confirmed yet. Farmers and bird owners must comply with the new restrictions to protect their flocks. The culling of affected animals and movement bans will remain in place until further notice.