Press release
dated 09.03.2026, No. 37
Reminder of the compulsory vaccination against Newcastle disease
Applies to farms, small holdings and hobby poultry flocks
At the end of February 2026, there was the first outbreak of Newcastle disease (ND, so-called atypical avian influenza) in Bavaria for a long time on a laying hen farm in the district of Erding. The veterinary office at the Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen district office therefore reminds people of the existing vaccination obligation for chicken and turkey flocks.
Newcastle disease is highly contagious in poultry. The incubation period is approximately three to six days. Affected animals show a drastic reduction in laying performance, thin-shelled to shell-less eggs and thin, greenish-yellow droppings, some of which are mixed with blood. In addition, the animals become extremely apathetic, refuse to eat or drink and develop respiratory distress. Swollen eyelids and bluish discolored combs can also be observed.
If the disease progresses rapidly, almost all animals can die
Consistent compliance with suitable biosecurity measures by livestock farmers is crucial to protect poultry from being infected and to prevent the possible further spread of the disease. Biosecurity measures include, for example, cleaning and disinfecting stables, objects, vehicles and clothing, as well as personal hygiene measures. The pathogens can be introduced into a flock directly via contact with sick poultry or indirectly via contaminated objects (footwear, wheelbarrows, vehicles, etc.). Livestock owners are generally requested to keep an eye out for possible diseases in poultry and to consult a vet in the event of any abnormalities. The veterinary office should also be informed in the event of increased animal losses or significant losses in performance.
As chickens and turkeys are particularly at risk, vaccination is compulsory for chicken and turkey flocks. In addition to farms, this also applies to small holdings and hobby poultry flocks. Poultry farmers should regularly check the vaccination status of their chicken and turkey flocks together with a vet and regularly carry out the necessary booster vaccinations.
Newcastle disease is an animal disease that is only relevant for poultry; it is not dangerous for other domestic animals or humans.
Further information is available at:
https://www.lgl.bayern.de/tiergesundheit/tierkrankheiten/virusinfektionen/nd/index.htm
With regard to compulsory ND vaccination, StikoVet has also issued a statement on the compulsory ND vaccination of poultry in hobby farms:
Marlis Peischer
Press Officer / Head of the Press Office
Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District Office