Synopsis
On January 25, South Korea reported its 29th case of highly pathogenic avian influenza at a duck farm, prompting increased surveillance of surrounding farms. The outbreak coincides with an import ban on German pork due to foot-and-mouth disease, highlighting ongoing animal health concerns in the region.Key Takeaways
- 29 cases of avian influenza reported this season.
- New case identified in Jincheon, North Chungcheong.
- Monitoring of 32 nearby duck farms initiated.
- Import ban on German pork due to foot-and-mouth disease.
- Japan culls 5 million birds amid avian influenza surge.
Seoul, Jan 25 (NationPress) South Korea has confirmed yet another instance of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) at a duck farm situated in the central region, bringing the season's total to 29 cases, as reported by authorities.
The latest case emerged from a poultry farm in Jincheon, located in North Chungcheong Province, according to the central disaster management headquarters overseeing AI outbreaks, as per Yonhap news agency.
In an effort to curb further transmission, authorities are keeping a close watch on approximately 32 duck farms within the quarantine zone surrounding the infected site.
Additionally, South Korea has implemented an import prohibition on German pork following a recent outbreak of the highly infectious foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Germany. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs stated that this decision was taken after Germany disclosed its first FMD case since 1988.
FMD is one of the most contagious diseases affecting cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle and pigs, and can spread swiftly if not controlled, according to Yonhap news agency.
In parallel, Japan is facing a rise in avian influenza incidents, with about five million chickens and other birds culled across five prefectures this month.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has verified new outbreaks at two poultry farms in Morioka City this week, leading to the establishment of an on-site response headquarters in Iwate Prefecture.
To date, 26 outbreak locations have been recorded this month, affecting nearly 5 million birds. The ministry has cautioned that the outbreaks show no signs of abating, and the situation could deteriorate further, potentially setting new records.
The ministry also highlighted the effect on egg prices, noting a 15% increase since the year's commencement, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
H5N1 influenza is a virus typically transmitted among sick poultry, but it can occasionally transfer from poultry to humans, with symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, and severe respiratory illness.
