More than 1 Case Per Day: AI Outbreak at Asan Broiler Farm
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South Korea Reports 23rd Avian influenza Outbreak This Winter
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A new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) at a broiler breeder farm in Asan, South Chungcheong Province, brings the total number of cases this winter to 23, prompting strengthened quarantine measures across the region.
What Happened?
On December 26, 2023, the Highly Pathogenic AI Central Accident Control Headquarters, led by Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Song Mi-ryeong, confirmed a new outbreak of H5N1-type HPAI at a broiler breeder farm in Asan, South Chungcheong Province. The farm houses approximately 21,000 birds.
Following the initial detection of an H5 antigen on December 25th, authorities instantly deployed an initial response team. Quarantine protocols were initiated, including strict access control, the culling of all birds at the affected farm, and a extensive epidemiological inquiry to trace the source and spread of the virus.
Quarantine Measures & Standstill Orders
beyond the affected farm in Asan, a 24-hour “Standstill” order was issued for poultry farms and related facilities in neighboring areas. This order, effective from 00:00 on December 26th to 00:00 on December 27th, impacts facilities in Pyeongtaek (Gyeonggi Province), and Cheonan, gongju, Yesan, and Dangjin (South Chungcheong Province). A standstill order halts the movement of poultry, eggs, and related materials to prevent further spread.
The Central Investigation Agency is conducting intensive inspections of 41 poultry farms within a 10-kilometer radius of the outbreak farm. Additionally, 31 farms, facilities, and vehicles that had contact with the affected farm are being thoroughly investigated.
Enhanced Surveillance & Risk Advisory
To proactively monitor the situation,the quarantine headquarters will implement a “telephone surveillance strengthening week” from December 27th,2023,to January 2nd,2024. This involves daily phone checks of all broiler breeder farms nationwide. This targeted surveillance aims to identify any potential new cases quickly.
A highly pathogenic AI risk advisory is in effect from December 26th, 2023, to January 5th, 2024, urging heightened vigilance and biosecurity measures among poultry farmers.
Impact and Context
This outbreak is part of a larger pattern of HPAI outbreaks in South Korea, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds increase the risk of virus transmission. The H5N1 strain is known for its high mortality rate in poultry and potential for zoonotic transmission, although the risk to humans remains low.
South Korea has implemented strict biosecurity measures and culling protocols in response to previous outbreaks. Though, the continued emergence of new cases highlights the ongoing challenge of controlling HPAI. The economic impact of these outbreaks can be significant, leading to the culling of millions of birds and disruptions to the poultry supply chain.