Virologist Stur warns: The bird flu virus has "all the ingredients to cause a pandemic"
Germany is witnessing a rapid spread of bird flu, raising warnings about the possibility of it becoming a global threat. Virologist Klaus Stöhr, former head of the influenza program at the World Health Organization, stated that the H5N1 virus "has all the necessary ingredients to ignite a pandemic." Although the risk of infection to humans remains low, experts have urged caution as cases increase across the country.
The Friedrich Loeffler Institute reported 31 outbreaks of the virus in poultry farms and 131 cases among wild birds since September. The virus appeared this year earlier and more rapidly than usual, leading to the culling of over 500,000 chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys. The highest infection rates were recorded in eastern Germany and Lower Saxony, with expectations of wider spread during the bird migration season.
Shtour advised citizens not to touch dead birds and to report to local veterinary offices immediately. He explained that crane birds were the most affected this season, with hundreds found dead. He also warned that the migration of wild birds increases the chances of the virus adapting to humans, emphasizing that this danger "should not be underestimated."
Hans-Peter Goldnik from the Central Association of the German Poultry Industry (ZDG) warned of a potential shortage of eggs and poultry meat if the outbreak continues. He called on the authorities to take stricter measures to control the situation, while Agriculture Minister Alois Reiner (CSU) urged close cooperation between the federal government and the states and requested an increase in compensation provided by the European Union to affected farmers.
Health authorities have also urged getting the seasonal flu vaccine to avoid dual infections. The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommended vaccination for anyone who deals with birds or livestock. Pharmacy associations confirmed that vaccination rates against the flu this season have reached record levels, aiming to prevent the emergence of a new strain of bird flu that could spread among humans.