«It is extremely concerning that mass killings of animals in the fight against bird flu have become normalized. Instead of just addressing symptoms, we must tackle the root causes of the problem. Fur and intensive farming are breeding grounds for pandemics: overcrowded, cruel, and unhygienic conditions accelerate the transmission, spread, and mutation of viruses such as the highly pathogenic bird flu. We urgently need to reduce the number of farmed animals and end fur farming. Transitioning to smaller farms with higher animal welfare standards can reduce the risk of disease, killings, animal suffering, and financial losses for farmers», says Nina Jamal, responsible for Global Affairs at FOUR PAWS.
The global animal welfare organization emphasizes that biosecurity, surveillance and control, transport restrictions, and vaccinations are important tools in containing bird flu outbreaks but do not address the underlying causes.
Prevention must start at the source
As data show, more than half of all zoonotic diseases in humans are linked to the intensification of agriculture since 1940. «To protect the health of humans and animals, prevention at the source is crucial. We urgently call on all governments to sign, ratify, and implement the pandemic agreement as soon as it is open for signature. By embedding One Health, this agreement is the first legally binding instrument that acknowledges the close link between human health, the environment, and animal welfare. The pandemic agreement includes commitments to prevent the spread of pathogens before humans and animals suffer», adds Jamal.
Media Contact:
Oliver Loga
Press Manager Switzerland
FOUR PAWS – Animal Welfare Foundation
Altstetterstrasse 124
8048 Zurich
Tel. +41 43 311 80 90