Japan reports recent pawnings with the 20th avian influenza outbreak of the season

During the first weekend of February, Japan continued to report the emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries of Japan announced on February 21 the recent detection of a case near a poultry farm in Iwate Prefecture. This marks the 20th outbreak of avian influenza in the country this season, according to Jin10.

Iwate Prefecture detects highly pathogenic virus at poultry farm

The farm in Iwate Prefecture reported to local authorities on February 20 about mass chicken deaths in recent days. After on-site inspections and detailed genetic testing, experts confirmed the presence of avian influenza virus with very high infectivity and pathogenicity.

The recent outbreak has become a major concern for Japan’s poultry industry, especially during the peak of the season. Strict control measures were immediately implemented after the positive case was identified.

Response and disease control measures

Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture has implemented emergency measures to prevent the spread of the virus to other farms. Contact tracing between the infected chickens and nearby poultry flocks is being conducted simultaneously.

With 20 outbreaks recorded this season, the avian influenza situation in Japan remains at a warning level. Authorities continue to enhance surveillance and monitoring efforts to quickly detect any new cases, aiming to minimize damage to the poultry industry.