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South Korea has confirmed its 29th case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) for the current season, with the latest outbreak reported at a duck farm in Jincheon, North Chungcheong Province. This was disclosed by the central disaster management headquarters for AI outbreaks, according to Yonhap News Agency.
The affected farm has prompted authorities to monitor 32 nearby duck farms within the designated quarantine zone to prevent further spread. Stringent biosecurity measures are being implemented to contain the outbreak.
In a related development, South Korea has imposed an import ban on German pork following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Germany — the first reported case in the European nation since 1988. FMD, one of the most contagious diseases affecting cloven-hoofed animals like pigs and cattle, poses significant risks to global livestock industries if not contained.
Regional Avian Influenza Crisis Intensifies
Neighboring Japan is grappling with an alarming rise in AI cases, leading to the culling of approximately five million chickens and birds across five prefectures in January alone.
The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has identified 26 outbreak sites this month, including two new cases in Morioka City. An on-site response headquarters has been established in Iwate Prefecture to manage the escalating crisis.
Authorities warn that the situation may worsen, with potential record-breaking infection numbers. Additionally, the outbreaks are impacting egg prices, which have risen by 15 percent since the start of the year, according to Xinhua News Agency.
Implications of H5N1
H5N1 influenza, the strain responsible for the outbreaks, is primarily transmitted among poultry but has the potential to infect humans. Symptoms in humans include fever, cough, runny nose, and severe respiratory issues. Experts emphasize the importance of strict monitoring and preventive measures to mitigate risks.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the latest available reports and data as of January 2025. Readers are advised to refer to official sources and health authorities for updates and guidelines related to avian influenza and foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks.
