The farm, in the Altenburger Land district, was immediately closed, reported Reuters.

In a statement, the state labour ministry said: "The poultry still alive will be killed."

This is just one of many outbreaks in Europe in recent weeks.

Avian influenza is spread by wild migratory birds. Domesticated birds may become infected with avian influenza viruses through direct contact with infected waterfowl or other infected poultry.

They can also becoming infected through contact with surfaces, such as standing water, that have been contaminated with the viruses.