'Rapid increase' in bird flu in Germany

Bird flu is spreading quickly across Germany, authorities warned Friday, with birds on farms and in the wild both affected by the outbreak. There had been a "very rapid increase in infections" over the past two weeks, German Agriculture Minister said at a public briefing.

The top priority for authorities is "to prevent further spread of the virus, to protect animals and to avoid damage to our agriculture and food industry," he added. About 15,000 animals had to be culled at a farm in southwestern Germany on Thursday, regional authorities said. Authorities have urged the public to avoid contact with sick or dead animals.