27.04.2006

Stork dies of Avian (Bird) Flu

After Avian Flu Suspicion in a White Stork NABU warns against Panic Reaction For the first time in Germany a stork died of the avian flu virus H5N1. The animal was found in the Brandenburgdistrcit of Maerkisch-Oderland and tested positive to the virus, as the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute for Animal Health reported. Whether it is the dangerous to humans Asian virus is still under investigation. Again NABU warns against panic reactions. Even if the infection with the dangerous avian flu virus H5N1 is copnfirmed by the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, nothing changes for humans in the opinion of NABU because the avian flu is as before only an animal affliction. "Even if storks breed in the vicinity of humans, no risks exist for humans," said NABU-Stork-Expert Kai-Michael Thomsen.

NABU recommends hygienic measures such as washing of hands with soap and discourages walking with outdoor shoes within one's living quarters. Generally, dead birds should not be touched.In such cases the appropriate veterinarian or volunteer stork caretaker should be contacted.

Also at this time, no additional danger exists for poultry keepers because coop quarantine is still in effect. "Before anything else at this time, it is important to gather more information, which is possible through the collection of excrement samples," so Thomsen.

Numerous voluntary co-workers of the NABU-Federal-Work GroupWhite Stork Protection are participating in these investigations. Over and above this the partner of the deceased stork appears to enjoy the best of health, he has already found a new partner.At this time as before, storks are part of the endangered species. Presently there are about 8,000 storks within Germany.

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