A case of H5N1 bird flu has been identified during initial tests at a duck farm in state of Brandenburg, Germany, a development which has led to the culling of 14,000 ducks.
The bird flu was identified following tests conducted by the farm. This finding was confirmed by the state laboratory. The source of the virus is not known and the authorities have begun the investigation.
The officials have culled the farm's ducks. In addition, all poultry within a 1 kilometer radius of the farm will be kept under observation for the next 21 days. The owners of the poultry farms in this area have been asked to report any symptoms to the authorities.
The H5N1 virus usually spreads between poultry; however, in some cases it can spread from poultry to humans. The virus can lead to fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, conjunctivitis, and, in severe cases, breathing problems and pneumonia that may be fatal. The bird flu virus has led to more than 330 deaths globally.
