Overview
- Berlin’s consumer protection authority says H5N1 is circulating in wild birds, with the Landeslabor detecting the virus in 14 additional carcasses pending Friedrich‑Loeffler‑Institut review.
- Since late October, 41 wild birds in the city have tested positive or been found dead in connection with the outbreak, notably swans and geese as well as raptors, gulls and a grey heron.
- Officials warn residents not to handle sick or dead birds and to report finds to district veterinary services, while poultry keepers are urged to tighten biosecurity with disinfection and protective clothing.
- Brandenburg reported 29 dead swans and cormorants in Dahme‑Spreewald this year, with several lab positives and FLI results expected next week; select municipalities there have a 30‑day stall order for poultry.
- National surveillance remains elevated, with the FLI logging 191 infected wild birds in January across 12 states, and authorities caution that further local outbreaks are likely under current winter conditions.