In Poland, authorities collected water samples from the Odra River after thousands of fish were found dead along the stretch. The information was shared by the Polish Minister of Climate and Environment in a briefing to the public.
Experts from the Odra infection group decided to send samples to laboratories abroad for further analysis. In addition to studies at Polish institutions, samples were today sent to a laboratory in the Czech Republic for independent testing, as part of an international effort to determine the cause.
The samples will also be analyzed in facilities in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom on 16 August, as part of a coordinated approach to verify findings across influencing factors and potential sources of contamination.
Polish officials have stated that the precise cause of the mass fish deaths in the Odra River is not yet established, and further investigation is underway to identify contributing factors and any related risks to wildlife and public health.
German authorities have expressed interest in receiving information from Poland about possible causes of the Odra river mortality event to support cross-border understanding and response planning.
On 14 August, reports noted elevated levels of substances in the Oder River that could pose risks to aquatic life. Berlin indicated it expected accountability and swift action by responsible parties in Poland, while some officials in the region resigned amid the ongoing investigation.