Poultrymed | Infectious Diseases 2009

Hong Kong: Dead magpie suspected to have H5 virus

31.12.2009

Preliminary tests on a dead Oriental magpie robin found in Hok Tau, Pat Sin Leng, indicate a suspected case of H5 avian influenza. The carcass was found December 29 near the Hok Tau Management Centre in Pat Sin Leng Country Park.

Newcastle disease in China during 2009

31.12.2009

In 2009, Newcastle disease occurred in 15 province (autonomous regions), i.e. Heilongjiang, Anhui, Fujian, Jiangxi, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Yunnan, Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia and Xinjiang, with 302,202 bird case, 139,786 died and 35,367 culled.

Cambodia: new outbreak of H5N1

28.12.2009

An outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza was recorded in KG. Cham (La-ak, Kraek, Ponhea Kraek) - Cambodia.

South Korea: LPAI in poultry

28.12.2009

As part of the yearly surveillance programme, samples collected from a duck raising farm in Seo-san city were tested and found positive for low-pathogenic H5N2 avian influenza.

Toddler's H9N2 infection under study

24.12.2009

The Centre for Health Protection is investigating a mild form of avian influenza A/H9N2 found in a 35-month-old girl. The toddler lives in Sha Tin. Since late November, she had developed a cough, fever and runny nose and was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital.

New Newcastle Disease Outbreak in Belgian Pigeons

22.12.2009

A new outbreak of Newcastle disease (ND) has been reported in Belgium, bringing the total to seven. The new outbreak occurs in a holding of 300 hobby pigeons at Nivelles in Walloon Brabant. The pigeons were vaccinated on 3 November 2009.

Egypt reports 39th avian influenza case this year

21.12.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported a new laboratory confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) on 19 December 2009. The case is a 21 year old female from the El Tanta District of Gharbia Governorate. She developed symptoms of fever and cough on 15 December 2009.

Cambodia reports human avian influenza case

18.12.2009

The Ministry of Health of Cambodia has announced a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The 57-year-old male, from Ponhea Kreak District, Kampong Cham Province, developed symptoms on 11 December. The case was admitted to Kampong Cham Provincial Hospital on 16 December, where he received treatment. He is in a stable condition.

South Korea: LPAI identified in poultry

14.12.2009

South Korea reports a case of low pathogenic avian influenza H7N2 in chickens and ducks in Sukgok traditional market place (Goksung-gun, Chollanamdo). The positive samples were found as part of avian influenza surveillance. All chickens and ducks retained by the index seller were culled and burned.

Avian Influenza ? Still human cases in Vietnam

11.12.2009

The Ministry of Health has reported a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case has been confirmed at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). The case is a man from Dien Bien Phu city, Dien Bien Province. He developed symptoms on 18 November, was hospitalized at Dien Bien general hospital and died on 28 November 2009.

Italy: Newcastle disease outbreak in pigeons

03.12.2009

An outbreak of Newcastle diseases has been reported in pigeons in Castelnuovo Berardenga (Siena).

Spanish eggs blamed for two salmonella deaths

01.12.2009

Two people have died and scores have fallen ill following a food poisoning outbreak linked to cheap eggs from Spain. Some 144 cases of Salmonella enteritidis have been confirmed since the summer in the 14 recent outbreaks. They are in addition to more than 400. The two dead were residents of a care home. While it is known they were infected, it is too soon to say whether this caused their deaths. Five others were so ill they needed hospital treatment.

Chicken survey finds two-thirds harbour salmonella, campylobacter

01.12.2009

Chicken survey finds two-thirds harbour Salmonella or Campylobacter. Consumer Reports assessed 382 chickens from 100 stores in its regular survey of chicken safety and found campylobacter in 62 per cent, salmonella in 14 per cent, and both bacteria in 14 per cent.

US: Turkey Farm Reports H1N1

30.11.2009

The pandemic H1N1 influenza virus was confirmed in a flock of breeder turkeys in Virginia -- the first U.S. case involving breeder turkeys. A significant drop in egg production was observed in one barn only. Information points to recent exposure of the turkeys to a farm worker exhibiting influenza-like symptoms.

Spain: an outbreak of Newcastle disease

27.11.2009

Spain reports an outbreak of Newcastle disease in Zumaia. 11,000 birds were affected.

Germany: LPAI detected in poultry

23.11.2009

Low pathogenic avian influenza H5N2 strain was detected in a poultry flock in Großwechsungen, Thuringen.

Japan suspends imports of French poultry products due to avian influenza

20.11.2009

Japan: The agriculture ministry has suspended imports of poultry products from France, where avian influenza has broken out on a duck farm.

Ivory coast: ravens did not die from Avian Influenza

20.11.2009

The reoccurrence of highly pathogenic avian influenza serotype H5N1 is not confirmed and will be closed since the results obtained by the OIE Reference Laboratory in Padova were negative for avian influenza by RT-PCR, virus isolation in embryonated eggs, sequencing, intravenous pathogenicity index test and hemagglutination inhibition test.

Egypt reports H5N1 infection

17.11.2009

Egypt's health ministry reported that a 21-year-old man from Alexandria governorate got sick with an H5N1 avian influenza infection after helping slaughter sick birds, Egypt's Strengthening Avian Influenza Detection and Response (SAIDR) site reported yesterday. If the World Health Organization (WHO) confirms the case, it will be listed as the country's 88th H5N1 infection.

Belgium: More Newcastle disaese outbreaks detected

17.11.2009

The veterinary authorities report a further case of Newcastle disease in a hobby flock of pigeons in East Flanders. The report describes a new case of Newcastle disease in a hobby pigeon flock at Haasdonk in East Flanders.

France: Low-pathogenic avian influenza in Ducks

16.11.2009

Avian influenza infection was identified through active surveillance for avian influenza in breeding farms, in Saint Aubin du Plain (DEUX-SÈVRES). The flock in the farm do not show clinical signs. The virus strain was identified as low-pathogenic H5N3. The farm includes 9,000 ducks ready to be force-fed divided into three batches of 3,000 ducks introduced respectively on 15 July 2009, 22 September 2009 and 22 October 2009.

Peru: Newcastle disease outbreak

13.11.2009

An outbreak of Newcastle disease was diagnosed in fighting birds in San Miguel (Ayacucho).

Korea: New LPAI outbreaks

11.11.2009

A low pathogenic avian influenza virus was discovered in excrement of migratory birds in a reservoir in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. Disease prevention headquarters said it will vaccinate about 40,000 .......

Newcastle disease found in Sweden

09.11.2009

The disease was diagnosed in a breeding flock of 20,000 birds, in Svedala, after a drop in egg production. All birds were culled.

Czech Republic: Outbreak of Avian Influenza

06.11.2009

An outbreak of Low-Pathogenic H5N3, avian influenza was registered in Trebin, Ceske Budejovice (Jihocesky). the case was deterted during regular monitoring, without clinical signs.

New avian influenza case reported in Russia

05.11.2009

The case was reported in wild birds, in Pushchino, Serpukhov (Moskovskaya Oblast)

Honduras: outbreak of Newcastle disease

04.11.2009

The Veterinary authorities of Honduras reported an outbreak of Newcastle disease in Cucuyagua, Copan. From 11000 birds, 6500 died.

China: A woman from Guangdong ill with avian influenza - H9

03.11.2009

The Centre for Health Protection is investigating an imported case of H9 influenza infection involving a 47-year-old Guangdong woman. She came down with breathlessness and a cough October 26. She came to Hong Kong for medical treatment and was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital October 28. She is stable and staying in isolation.

Vietnam reports avian influenza outbreak among poultry

02.11.2009

Vietnam has announced the reemergence of avian influenza among its poultry after six months with no reported outbreaks of the H5N1 virus. The infected poultry were reported in nine farming households in the northern mountainous Dien Bien province between October 21 and 23.

UK: Salmonella investigation after nine outbreaks and two deaths

31.10.2009

Around 130 people have fallen ill with the same strain of Salmonella linked to poultry and eggs since August across England and Wales. Five outbreaks have been linked to oriental restaurants, three to other restaurants and one was in a care home. Two people with the infection died in the care home, which has not been named by officials, but post mortem results have proved inconclusive about the cause of death.

Newcastle disease breaks out in Switzerland

21.10.2009

Switzerland has reported an outbreak of Newcastle disease. The disease was first confirmed on 8 October. It has been reported that pigeon flocks at a farm in Bern have been affected by the disease.

Ontario (Canada): H1N1 swine flu in a Turkey farm

20.10.2009

An outbreak of H1N1, swine flu was detected in a turkey breeding farm in Ontario, Canada. The farm is operated by Kitchener-based Hybrid Turkeys. It is thought that the virus was transmitted from human to bird.

Italy: Low pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks

20.10.2009

13 LPAI outbreaks had occurred in Italy from 20 April to 26 June 2009. - 4 LPAI (H5N7) outbreaks in meat turkey farms in Northern Italy (Veneto and Lombardy Regions). - 2 (H7N3) and 7 (H7) LPAI outbreaks in Central Italy (Umbria Region) and Northern Italy (Piemonte, Emilia Romagna and Veneto Regions).

HPAI H7 in Spain - Follow up

17.10.2009

This is the first HPAI H7 outbreak ever registered in poultry (Laying hens) in Spain. Outbreak chronology: - October 9th. Suspicion. Two of the 5 existing flocks show increased mortality rates (4 and 50%). Inmovilization and sampling. - October 11st. Confirmation: HPAI H7 through PCR and sequencing. - October 12nd. Stamping out begins. 860.080 birds in avian farms within 3 km; 1.190.374 birds in avian farms within 10 Km.

Cote D'Ivoire: Highly pathogenic avian influenza

16.10.2009

H5N1 virus was diagnosed in wild birds in Cocody township, Abidjan. The diagnosis was made on Corvus albicollis (white-necked ravens) that died suddenly while they were flying over the Secondary school located at Cocody in Abidjan. Nine birds were found positive.

Ducks on imperial farm found infected with avian influenza virus

16.10.2009

The farm ministry said Friday that some ducks on the Imperial Household Agency's duck farm in Koshigaya, Saitama Prefecture, were confirmed infected with an LP avian influenza virus.

Spain: Avian influenza in a Layer flock

13.10.2009

Highly-pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI; sub-type H7) has been found at the Chicken farm "Segura", in Almoguera (Guadalajara). The virus was found in a commercial layer flock of about 310,000 birds (247,200 hens and 61,440 pullets) . All birds have been culled.

FSA publishes survey of campylobacter and salmonella in chicken

06.10.2009

The Food Standards Agency has published the findings of a new survey testing for campylobacter and salmonella in chicken on sale in the UK. The survey showed that campylobacter was present in 65% of the samples of chicken tested. Salmonella was in 6% of samples, 0.5% of these samples contained S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium.

Egypt: 2 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1)

24.09.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported 2 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1). The first case is a 13 year-old male from Alexandria Governorate. His symptoms started on 13 September. He was admitted to hospital on 14 September, where he received oseltamivir treatment. The patient is in a stable condition. The second case is a 14 month old female from Tahrer District, Behira Governorate. Her symptoms started on 23 September. She was admitted to Damanhur Fever Hospital where she received oseltamivir treatment. The patient is in a stable condition.

Mongolia: Vaccination Drive Against AI Underway in Ulaanbaatar City

14.09.2009

Avian influenza (AI) signs are being registered in rural areas, Ulaanbaatar city has started a vaccination drive of domestic birds against the disease.

UK: Infectious laryngotacheitis in Broiler Breeders

11.09.2009

Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) was diagnosed in a house of 57-week-old Broiler breeders with a sudden increased in mortality. Birds were seen with watery eyes and mild dyspnoea. Lesions at post-mortem examination included plugs of necrotic caseous debris occluding the larynx. Histological examination confirmed a severe tracheitis with numerous syncytia containing intranuclear inclusion bodies consistent with ILT (Veterinary Laboratories Agency July 2009 report)

Egypt: 2 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1)

31.08.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported 2 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1). The first case is a 2 year-old female from Menofyia Governorate. Her symptoms started on 23 August. She was admitted to a fever hospital on 26 August, where she received oseltamivir treatment. The patient is in a stable condition. The second case is an 14 year-old female from Damitta Governorate. Her symptoms started on 21 August. She was admitted to a fever hospital on 23 August, where she received oseltamivir treatment, and is in a stable condition.

FAO: H1N1 flu in turkeys may spread

27.08.2009

The detection of an H1N1 virus in turkeys in Chile raises concern that poultry farms elsewhere in the world could also become infected with the pandemic flu virus currently circulating in humans, FAO said. Chilean authorities reported on 20 August that the pandemic H1N1/2009 virus was present in turkeys in two farms near the seaport of Valparaiso, Chile. The influenza strain found in the poultry flocks is identical to the H1N1/2009 pandemic strain currently circulating among human populations around the world.

Chile: H1N1 in a Turkey farm

21.08.2009

Two Chilean poultry farms are under quarantine after swine influenza was detected in turkeys, the first case of the virus found in birds. Sopraval SA, the Santiago-based producer of poultry, beef and pork products, said agricultural authorities identified the virus, also known as H1N1, in turkeys on two of the company’s farms. Outbreak no. 1 is composed of 5 breeding premises. The outbreak started in premises no. 1 and through horizontal transmission, it reached 3 other premises. In the outbreak no. 2 of 5 existing sectors were affected.

Two human avian influenza cases reported in Egypt - WHO

11.08.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported 2 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1). The first case is an 8 year-old female from Kfr Elsheikh district, Kfr Elsheikh Governorate. Her symptoms started on 24 July 2009. She was admitted to Kfr Elsheikh fever hospital on 25 July, where she received oseltamivir treatment. The patient is in a stable condition. The second case is an 18 month-old male from Shebin Elkom district, Menofyia Governorate. His symptoms started on 28 July 2009. He was admitted to Shebin Elkom fever hospital on 29 July 2009, where he received oseltamivir treatment, and is in a stable condition.

Minnesota quarantines turkey flock due to avian influenza

05.08.2009

Low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI; sub-type H7N9) has been found at the turkey farm in Meeker County. A commercial turkey flock in central Minnesota has been quarantined after routine testing discovered the avian influenza virus. The state Bureau of Animal Health says the birds appeared healthy and showed no signs of infection and there's no sign of illness among farm workers. The board is following the state's containment plan by quarantining the flock and all other flocks within three miles. Minnesota is the US top turkey producing state.

Nigeria: Avian influenza Resurfaces in Bauchi State

24.07.2009

Nigerian authorities announced on Friday, 24 July, that H5N1 avian influenza (AI) has resurfaced in Bauchi state, after 8 months without reported outbreaks of AI. The outbreak has spread to other farms in Azare and Misau cities, and last month the virus reappeared in 3 other northern states, including Katsina, Sokoto and Kano. In the affected farms, authorities reportedly culled hundreds of chickens and disinfected the facilities in which all the chickens were kept in order to contain the spread of the virus.

Mass salmonella poisoning in Pazardjik - Bulgaria

14.07.2009

The microbiological laboratory in Pazardjik has confirmed that the cause of the mass poisoning that affected 22 people in the town of Pazardjik from an Arab-run schwarma fast food outlet is attributed to salmonella enteritidis. The source is the Ali Baba fast food outlet in Pazardjik. Data from the final analysis released by the laboratory in Pazardjik says that "salmonella, extracted from the eggs with which mayonnaise sauce was made for the doners, caused micro-biologic poisoning".

Avian Influenza vaccination in Egypt: an assessment

04.07.2009

Vaccination against AI in Egypt has been used for the last three years and as a principal major to control the epidemic of HPAI. A special report by the General Organization for Veterinary Services (GOVS), the National Laboratory for Quality Control and Poultry Production (NLQP), the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD), FAO-Egypt; and aith the collaboration of the French Agricultural Research Center for International Development (CIRAD) has recently been published.

Denmark: Salmonella in eggs

03.07.2009

The National Food Directorate says that forty people have contracted Salmonella Enteritidis since May, probably as a result of fried eggs or raw eggs that have not been heated properly. In several cases, the eggs have been traced back to the Møllebjerggård Ægpakkeri egg packaging plant and a producer that delivers eggs to the plant has been put under observation.

Defra report: HPAI H5N1 in wild birds in Russia

01.07.2009

Defra, The International Disease Surveillance team have published a report regarding outbreaks of highly avian influenza in wild birds in Tyva region, Russia

Egypt has reported 3 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1)

01.07.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported 3 new confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H5N1). The first case is a 1-year old male from Domiat Governorate. His symptoms started on 1 June 2009. He was admitted to hospital on 2 June, where he received oseltamivir treatment. The patient has recovered and was discharged on 9 June. The second case is a 4-year old female from Dakhlia Governorate. Her symptoms started on 5 June 2009. She was admitted to hospital on 6 June, where she received oseltamivir treatment. The patient has recovered and was discharged on 14 June.

Spain: New case of avian influenza

26.06.2009

Low pathogenic avian influenza has been reported in Ducks in Navara (Los Arcos). The case is sub-clinic.

Newcastle disease found in Israel

15.06.2009

Israeli Veterinary Services have confirmed a new outbreak of Newcastle disease in poultry in the south of the country. The disease was diagnosed in 4 weeks old broilers in Kfar Menahem. : There are 8 poultry houses and the disease was detected in only two houses. Culling in all the 8 houses has begun and is expected to be finished within 24 hours.

Poultry: main source of US food poisoning

12.06.2009

A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed the largest number of cases of foodborne illness in 2006 were associated with poultry. The report, said there were 1,270 reported foodborne disease outbreaks in 2006, which resulted in 27,634 illnesses and 11 deaths. Among these 1,270 outbreaks, 621 had a confirmed single cause.

Newcastle disease in Azerbaijan

12.06.2009

Azerbaijan

Newcastle disease has been reported in Azerbaijan. The affected flock are broilers 26 days old in Siazan. ~ 26,000 birds died or were culled.

New Case on ND in Pigeons in Belgium

05.06.2009

The veterinary authorities have reported a news case of Newcastle disease (ND) in pigeons to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). The case is a single outbreak of Newcastle disease in a hobby flock of 64 ornamental pigeons at Neufvilles in the province of Hainaut. Two birds were affected, and one died. The source of infection was the introduction of new birds to the flock.

Egypt: continuing reports of human avian influenza cases

02.06.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza A/H5N1 on 01 June 2009. The case is a 4-year old female child from the Kefr El Sheikh District of Kefr El Sheikh Governorate. Her symptoms started on 30 May 2009 with fever, cough and sore throat. She was admitted to Kefr El Sheikh Fever Hospital on 31 May 2009. The patient received oseltamivir and is in a stable condition.

Avian Influenza hits Bengal again

01.06.2009

A fresh outbreak of the highly pathogenic avian influenza has been reported from West Bengal. About 20 backyard poultry were reported to have died on May 20 in the rural areas of Uttar Dinajpur in West Bengal, not far from the Assam and Bangladesh border. These birds were confirmed on May 25 to have died of H5N1 strain of avian influenza. The animal husbandry department formally notified the outbreak of bird flu in the area to the World Organisation of Animal Health(OIE) on May 28.

Egypt reports 77th avian influenza case

01.06.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza. The case is a 14-month old girl from Dekernes District, Dkhalia Governorate. Her symptoms began on 25 May 2009. She was admitted to Mansoura Chest Hospital on 29 May where she received oseltamivir and is in a stable condition. Investigations into the source of infection indicated that she had close contact with dead and sick poultry.

Egypt reports 76th avian influenza case

28.05.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported two new confirmed human cases of avian influenza on 26 May 2009. The two cases are from two separate districts of Sharkia Governorate. The first case is a 4-year old male from Hehia City, Hehia District. His symptoms began with fever on 24 May 2009. The second case is a 4-year old female from Abo Hammad District. Her symptoms began with fever on 23 May 2009. Both cases were admitted to Zagazig Fever Hospital where they received oseltamivir and are in a stable condition.

Mongolia: Avian influenza reported in Swans

26.05.2009

Avian influenza was confirmed in 8 swans in Doytyn Nuurt in Ogiinuur Sum, Arhangay Province. After receiving reports of a mass bird die-off from local residents on 22 May. Samples from the birds reportedly tested negative for H5N1 virus in a preliminary expedited examination, but were confirmed later in a comprehensive examination in a central laboratory on 24 May.

Bulgaria Reports Two New Cases of Newcastle disease

26.05.2009

The veterinary services in Bulgaria have sent a report to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) about two new cases of Newcastle disease (ND). The cases were at Vojdovo in Kardzali province in the south of the country, and at Mamarchevo in Jambold province in the south-east. Both outbreaks started on 3 May and in backyard flocks. In total, 257 birds were involved, of which 135 were affected, 102 died and 144 were destroyed.

Egypt reports more avian influenza human cases

22.05.2009

Between 13 to 20 May, the Ministry of Health of Egypt reported five new confirmed human case of avian influenza. The first case is a 4-year old boy from Kafr Sakr District, Sharkia Governorate. His symptoms began on 10 May 2009 and he was admitted to Zagazig Fever Hospital on 11 May. He is in a stable condition. The second case is a 3-year old boy from Mahalla District, Gharbia Governorate. His symptoms began on 12 May and he was admitted to Mahalla Fever Hospital on 15 May 2009. He is in a stable condition. The third case was a 4-year old girl from Meet Ghamr District, Dakahlia Governorate. Her symptoms began on 9 May 2009 and she was admitted to Mansoura Chest Hospital on 17 May 2009. She died on 18 May 2009. The fourth case is a 4-year old boy from Sherbin District, Dakahlia Governorate. His symptoms began on 18 May 2009 and he was admitted to Mansoura Chest Hospital on the same day. He is in a stable condition. The fifth case is a 3-year old boy from Sohag District, Sohag G

Tibet: 121 Wild Birds Died of H5N1

18.05.2009

Qinghai

An outbreak of H5N1 was detected in wild birds in Hainan Tibetan autonomous prefecture in Qinghai Province on 17 May. Reportedly, on 8 May, 121 wild birds were found dead of unknown disease. The National Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza confirmed on 17 May that the birds cause of death was H5N1. Following the outbreak, related departments have disinfected the affected areas, and destroyed the 121 wild birds and 600 household birds within the surrounding area. No outbreak has been detected in domestic fowl so far.

Egypt: More avian influenza human cases

15.05.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza. The case is a 5-year old female from Tama District, Sohag Governorate. Her symptoms began on 7 May and she was admitted in Sohag Fever Hospital on 9 May where she received oseltamivir. She is in a stable condition. The case was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratories on 10 May 2009. Investigations into the source of infection indicate close contact with dead and sick poultry.

Avian Influenza found at another Tennessee farm

12.05.2009

Avian influenza has been found at another poultry farm in Tennessee. It is a low-pathogenic form - H7N9, and the influenza virus is the same as that found last week at another farm in the state. The farm provides breeding stock for poultry farms.

Sources of Campylobacter Infection in Scotland

12.05.2009

A new report entitled The Molecular Epidemiology of Scottish Campylobacter Isolates from Human Cases of Infection using Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) has been published by the Food Standards Agency Scotland (FSAS) on research that was led by Dr Ken Forbes. Clinical Campylobacter infections comprise two species, C. jejuni and C. coli, and contributes to half of all reported cases of infectious intestinal disease in the UK, imposing a continuing healthcare burden. Approximately seven unreported cases occur for each reported case, and the likely total imposes an annual economic burden of £0.5 bn.

Newcastle Disease Reported in Croatia

11.05.2009

The veterinary authorities have reported an outbreak of Newcastle disease in pigeons. The report is about an outbreak of Newcastle disease in pigeons at Kastel Kambelovac in the country of Splitsko-Dalminska, along the Adriatic coast. The outbreak started on 9 April. Two birds in a hobby flock of 133 pigeons died.

EFSA-ECDC report: Salmonella remains most common cause of food-borne outbreaks

06.05.2009

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have published their Community Summary Report on Food-borne Outbreaks in the EU in 2007. It shows that Salmonella remained the most common cause of food-borne outbreaks in the European Union, followed by food-borne viruses and Campylobacter. A total of 5,609 outbreaks were reported in 2007, which affected almost 40,000 people and caused 19 deaths.

H5N1 cases confirmed

06.05.2009

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed two H5N1 avian influenza cases, one of them fatal. The first case involved a 23-year-old Vietnamese woman from Tranh Hoa province who got sick on Apr 16, was hospitalized Apr 21, and died the next day. Her illness is now listed as Vietnam's 111th case and its 56th fatality. The second case is in a 34-year-old Egyptian woman from Gharbia governorate who became ill on Apr 21 and was hospitalized and treated with oseltamivir (Tamiflu) the same day.

USA: Avian Influenza Found in Tennessee

01.05.2009

Birds on a farm in Giles County have been found to have the avian influenza virus (low-pathogenic H7 strain). Two poultry houses belonging to one farm in Giles County are infected with the avian influenza virus. On April 24, preliminary test results during routine surveillance indicated the possibility of an avian influenza virus. Subsequent testing by USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa indicates an exposure to the H7 strain of low-pathogenic avian influenza. The affected farm produces breeding stock used in the poultry industry. Poultry is a $454 million industry in Tennessee — second to cattle. Poultry production in Tennessee consists mainly of broilers. In 2007, Tennessee farmers produced 207 million broilers.

Russia expands flu ban to U.S. beef, poultry

28.04.2009

Russia has suspended imports of not only U.S. pork but also U.S. beef and poultry from certain U.S. states amid concerns of a hybrid swine, avian and human influenza (H1N1) as concerns about an international outbreak grow. The bans apply to meat and poultry produced in California, Kansas, New York, Ohio and Texas, where cases of the hybrid flu have been reported. U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk urged all trading partners to base their decisions on scientific evidence per international obligations.

OIE: Don't call it Swine Influenza

27.04.2009

A/H1N1 influenza like human illness in Mexico and the USA: OIE statement

A virus circulating in Mexico and the USA and involving person to person transmission appears to cause in some cases severe disease in certain people infected by this virus. There is no evidence that this virus is transmitted by food. It is not a classical human influenza virus called seasonal influenza, which causes every year millions of human cases of influenza worldwide but a virus which includes in its characteristics swine, avian and human virus components. The virus has not been isolated in animals to date.

Egyptian boy have avian influenza

23.04.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza . The case is a 4 year old male from Akhmim District, Sohag Governorate. His symptoms began on 18 April and he was hospitalized at Sohag Fever Hospital on 18 April where he was started on oseltamivir. He is in a stable condition. Infection with H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory on 21 April and subsequently confirmed by the U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3 (NAMRU-3).

Egypt reports 66th avian influenza case

21.04.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported two new confirmed human cases of avian influenza. The first case is a 25-year old pregnant female from El Marg District, Cairo Governorate. Her symptoms began on 6 April and she was hospitalized at Ain Shams University hospital on 11 April where she was started on oseltamivir on 16 April. She is in a critical condition. Investigations into the source of her infection indicated close contact with sick poultry prior to becoming ill. The second case is 18-month old female from Kellin District, Kafr Elsheikh Governorate. Her symptoms began on 15 April and she was hospitalized at Kafr Elsheikh Fever Hospital on 18 April where she was started on oseltamivir on the same day of hospitalization. Her condition is stable. Investigations into the source of infection indicated close contact with dead and sick poultry prior to becoming ill.

Egypt: two new H5N1 avian influenza infections within 2 days of each other

21.04.2009

Avian influenza outbreak in Tibet

19.04.2009

Chinese officials had confirmed the outbreak of a deadly strain of avian influenza among poultry in the Tibetan capital Lhasa. The H5N1 virus had been found in poultry sold at a wholesale market in Lhasa — a week ago on April 12. Emergency measures have been taken with 1,679 birds culled.

New avian influenza case detected in Egypt

16.04.2009

The Egyptian Ministry of Health announced Wednesday 15/4/2009 that the 64th human avian influenza case in Egypt has been detected. Abdel-Rahman Shahin, the spokesman for the ministry, said Saadiya Ahmed Abdel-Lateef, 33, from Qaleen village, in Kafr el-Sheikh governorate, was admitted to Kafr el-Sheikh Fever Hospital on April 7 suffering from high temperature and breathing problems as a result of the virus.

Mass vaccination against avian influenza begins in Altai region

13.04.2009

Large-scale vaccination of domestic poultry against avian influenza began in Russia’s Altai region on Monday. All in all, 1.3 million vaccinations will be made. The vaccination is made in 38 districts. Migration routes of wild birds go through the Altai region from Asian countries, where the main centres of the virus are situated.

Newcastle disease breaks out in Belgium

08.04.2009

The Belgian veterinary authorities have sent an immediate notification to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) regarding a new outbreak of Newcastle disease. The immediate notification, dated 6 Apr [2009], covers 2 outbreaks of Newcastle disease (paramyxovirus type 1) in pigeons. Both cases started on 11 Mar 2009. One case was in Bevel in the province of Antwerp and the other was in Nieuwerkerken in East Flanders. The last occurrence of the virus in Belgium was in June 2008.

3-years-old in Vietnam dies of Avian Influenza

08.04.2009

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has reported a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case has been confirmed at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). The case is a 3 year old boy from Chau Thanh District, Dong Thap Province. He developed symptoms on 12 March, was hospitalized on 13 March, and died on 19 March. Investigations into the source of infection indicated a history of close contact with sick and dead poultry prior to the onset of symptoms.

Egypt: 3 new confirmed human cases of avian influenza

08.04.2009

The Ministry of Health of Egypt has reported 3 new confirmed human cases of avian influenza. The first case is a 2 year-old boy from Kom Hamada District, El Behira Governorate. He developed symptoms on 27 March and was admitted to Naaora Fever Hospital on the 30 March where he was started on oseltamivir the same day (30 March). He remains in a stable condition. The second case is also a 2 year-old boy from the same district and was detected through the investigation around the above-mentioned case. He developed symptoms on 31 March and was admitted to Damanhor Fever Hospital on 1 April where he was started on oseltamivir the same day (1 April ). He remains in a stable condition. Both boys had contact with sick/dead poultry prior to the illness onset. Close contacts of both boys have been identified and none has shown symptoms of the infection.

Germany: H7 in Turkeys

06.04.2009

17000 turkeys will be culled on a fattening unit in the district of Kleve after a preliminary test revealed the presence of an LPAI H7N7 virus. The H7N7 subtype of avian influenza is probably a virus with low morbidity and mortality rate for poultry, as the district of Kleve on Friday [3 Apr 2009] announced. Further samples are investigated by the NRL (Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut) on the island of Riems and results are expected early next week [beginning 6 Apr 2009].

Avian Influenza found on Western KY Poultry Farm

05.04.2009

State and federal authorities are investigating a finding of suspected low-pathogenic avian influenza in a single broiler-breeder poultry farm in western Kentucky. State Veterinarian Robert C. Stout has quarantined the farm, which produces hatching eggs for Perdue Farms Inc. Perdue plans to depopulate 20,000 chickens in two houses on the farm. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is conducting surveillance on backyard flocks within a two-mile radius of the farm.

WHO confirms H5N1 infection in Egyptian girl

30.03.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza. The case is a two and a half year old female from Qena District, Qena Governorate. Her symptoms began on 23 March. She was admitted to Qena Fever Hospital on 24 March where she was started on oseltamivir the same day (24 March) and remains in a stable condition.

Egypt: a new confirmed human case of Avian Influenza

23.03.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population, Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of Avian Influenza. The case is a 38-year old female from Elfath District, Assiut Governorate. Her symptoms started with a fever and headache on March 14. She was admitted to Assiut Fever Hospital on March 14 where she was started on oseltamivir the same day (March 14) and remains in a stable condition. Infection with H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed on 18 March by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory.

Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 in France

22.03.2009

France has reported an outbreak of H5N1 LPAI in decoy ducks on a premises in Calvados and a second outbreak of H5 (not N1) in decoy ducks in Pas-de Calais. The site in Calvados contains 45 ducks in two aviaries, covered with fencing and kept by one hunter. Two of ten ducks tested positive for H5N1 LPAI. The second premises in Pas-de-Calais contained 563 ducks in 32 adjacent aviaries owned by a hunter cooperative. During routine surveillance, 5 ducks each from 3 of 32 aviaries were tested for avian influenza.

Finland: Salmonella in 19 egg-producing farms

21.03.2009

The Food Safety Agency Evira (Finland) says that salmonella has been found at seven more egg-producing farms. So far this month the bacterial infection has been detected at 19 poultry farms. The source of the infection is believed to be contaminated feed ( (Raisio Feed Ltd.) delivered to farms. According to Evira, the egg producers where Salmonella has been confirmed are all in South-Western Finland.

Third H7 strain of avian influenza found in Japan

11.03.2009

Third Aichi Prefecture farm has been tested positive for the H7 strain of avian influenza virus. The third case of avian influenza virus was also found on a quail farm in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, where two low pathogenic H7N6 strains of avian influenza virus were identified since the end of February.

Egypt: An 18-month-old child contracted the H5N1 avian influenza virus

11.03.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza. The new case is a one and a half year old female from Menofia Governorate. Her symptoms began on 6 March and she was hospitalized on 9 March where she remains in a stable condition. Infection with H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed on 10 March by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory.

H5N1 strain found in Germany

10.03.2009

Germany has informed the European Commission of an outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza, the EU's first case of the lethal strain of the contagious disease in poultry this year.

Egyptian boy contracts avian influenza

10.03.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza. The new case is a two and a half year old male from Amaria District, Alexandria Governorate. His symptoms began on 3 March and he was hospitalized at Alexandria Fever Hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

Japan: Avian influenza virus detected on another farm

02.03.2009

Another Aichi Prefecture farm has been tested positive for a form of avian influenza virus. The local government conducted the test on farms around a quail farm in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, where a low pathogenic H7N6 strain of avian influenza virus was detected last week.

Egypt: a new human case of avian influenza

02.03.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has reported a new confirmed human case of avian influenza on 1 March 2009. The new case is a two-year old male from Yousef el seddik district of Fayoum Governorate whose symptoms began on 25 February. He was hospitalized and treated at the Manshiet Elbakry general hospital on 28 February and is currently in a critical condition. Infection with H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory on 1 March.

Japan: H7 avian influenza in quails

27.02.2009

Avian Influenza has been detected at a quail farm in the central Japanese city of Toyohashi, the government said Friday. Local authorities sequestered a 10-kilometre area around the farm. No quail had died of the virus and no humans had been infected. The quail had the low pathogenic H7 strain. The Toyohashi farm where the virus was detected holds about 320,000 quails and is a large producer of eggs. About 280,000 adult quails on the farm are expected to be culled to contain the virus.

Vietnam: Avian influenza human case

27.02.2009

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has announced the death of a previously confirmed case of H5N1 infection. The 32 year old male from Kim Son district, Ninh Binh Province died on 25 February. Of the 109 cases confirmed to date in Viet Nam, 54 have been fatal.

UK: Avian Influenza at Matthews farms

26.02.2009

Avian Influenza outbreak in Suffolk & Norfolk

Twenty thousands turkeys have been isolated on two Bernard Matthews breeding farms in East Anglia following an outbreak of a low-pathogenic H6N1 avian influenza virus. Tests carried out by Government vets confirmed that the virus had been detected in birds at sites in Ubbeston, Suffolk, and Yaxham, Norfolk. The two breeder farms, at Yaxham, near Dereham, and Ubbeston, near Halesworth, have been put under movement restrictions.

Czech Republic: Avian influenza in Geese

26.02.2009

Avian Influenza virus has been found among breeder geese in Jihomoravsky (Hodoninat). The virus is a low pathogenic H7.

HPAI - H5N1 in frozen duck carcasses, Germany, 2007

26.02.2009

Emerg Infect Dis (2009) 15(2):272-279

Germany researchers conducted phylogenetic and epidemiologic analyses to determine sources of outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV), subtype H5N1, in poultry holdings in 2007 in Germany, and a suspected incursion of HPAIV into the food chain through contaminated deep-frozen duck carcasses. In summer 2007, HPAIV (H5N1) outbreaks in 3 poultry holdings in Germany were temporally, spatially, and phylogenetically linked to outbreaks in wild aquatic birds. Detection of HPAIV (H5N1) in frozen duck carcass samples of retained slaughter batches of 1 farm indicated that silent infection had occurred for some time before the incidental detection.

Vietnam records another human avian influenza case

24.02.2009

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has announced the death of a previously confirmed case of H5N1 infection. The 23 year old female from Dam Ha District, Quang Ninh Province died on 21 February. Of the 109 cases confirmed to date in Viet Nam, 53 have been fatal.

Korea: H5 in chicken farms

20.02.2009

Korea's Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries confirmed on 18 Feb 2009 that avian influenza recently occurred on 3 chicken farms in Korea's Suncheon and other parts of Jeollanam-do (South Jeolla) Province. The Ministry said that tests carried out on blood samples taken from poultry on 3 chicken farms in Suncheon, Gokseong County, and Boseong County in Jeollanam-do Province confirmed that the avian influenza virus found on all 3 chicken farms is low pathogenic H5 subtype.

Romania: H5N2 was deteced in poultry

19.02.2009

Low pathogenic avian influenza, H5N2 strain was detected in waterfowl (17 ducks and 2 geese), in Tulcea. All birds were killed and destroyed. The cleavage site of the haemagglutinin PQRQTR/GLFG - was low pathogenic .

Man dies of H5N1 in Vietnam

18.02.2009

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has reported a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case has been confirmed at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). The case is a 32-year old man from Kim Son district, Ninh Binh province. He developed symptoms on 5 February 2009 and was hospitalized on 13 February 2009. He is currently in a serious condition. The case is known to have had recent contact with sick poultry prior to the onset of his illness.

Avian Influenza confirmed in second flock in British Columbia

12.02.2009

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of H5 avian influenza virus in a second commercial poultry operation in southern British Columbia. The flock was tested as part of the surveillance activities within three kilometres of the commercial poultry operation where low pathogenic H5N2 avian influenza was detected on January 24.

Vietnam: a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus

11.02.2009

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has reported a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case has been confirmed at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). The case is a 23-year old woman from Dam Ha district, Quang Ninh province. She developed symptoms on 28 January 2009 and was hospitalized on 31 January 2009. She is currently in a serious condition and is known to have had recent contact with sick and dead poultry prior to the onset of her illness.

Egypt: new human case of avian influenza A(H5N1)

09.02.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has announced a new human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. The case is a one and a half year old male from the Maghagha District of Menia Governorate. His symptoms began on 6 February and he was hospitalized at the Maghagha Fever Hospital on 7 February where he remains in a stable condition. Infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory.

Egypt: confirms 54th human case of avian influenza

05.02.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has announced a new human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. The case is a 2-year-old male from Suez Governorate, Ganain District. His symptoms began on 2 February and he was hospitalized at the Suez Fever Hospital on 3 February. He remains in a stable condition. Infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory. Investigations into the source of his infection indicate a recent history of contact with dead poultry.

France: Avian influenza virus found in a breeding duck flock

04.02.2009

Low pathogenic H5N3 avian influenza strain was found in a breeding duck flock in Vendee (Les Brandes, La Garnache), France. The affected farm has only one closed premises with about 5,000 breeding ducks in late moult (no lay) and aged 12 months. First signs were obsereved on Thursday 29 January 2009. All ducks were slaughter on the 1 of February 2009.

Canada: H5N2 virus behind avian influenza outbreak at B.C. turkey farm

04.02.2009

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says the virus responsible for an outbreak of avian influenza in B.C.'s Fraser Valley is an H5N2 virus. Approximately 60,000 turkeys on the affected farm were euthanized last week and they are being composted in the barn at temperatures that should ensure any viruses are destroyed.

Chinese woman contracts avian influenza

02.02.2009

The Ministry of Health in China has announced a new confirmed human cases of H5N1 infection. The case is a 21-year-old female from Xupu County, Hunan province. She had onset of symptoms on 23 January and remains in hospital in a clinically stable condition. Investigations into the source of her infection indicate possible exposure to sick and dead poultry.

China reports sixth human avian influenza case this year

27.01.2009

China

The Ministry of Health in China has announced three new confirmed human cases of H5N1 infection. The first, a 31-year-old female from Urumqi, Xinjiang Autonomous Region had onset of symptoms on 10 January. She received treatment in hospital but died on 23 January. Investigations into the possible source of her infection indicate recent visits to a live poultry market. The local authorities are currently conducting epidemiological investigations and close contacts are being monitored. To date, no clinical symptoms have been reported among the contacts.

Canada: The avian influenza outbreak in B.C.

26.01.2009

Results of gene sequencing indicate a low path cleavage site (NVPQRETR/GLFGAIA). The sequence is 99% related to another H5 virus (H5N2) from California in 2007. Closest match in Genbank is A/American green-winged teal/California/HKWF609/2007(H5N2).

Egypt: a new human case of avian influenza A(H5N1)

26.01.2009

The Ministry of Health and Population of Egypt has announced a new human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. The case is a 2-year-old female from Manofia Governorate, Shebin Elkom District. Her symptoms began on 23 January and she was immediately hospitalized. She remains in a stable condition. Infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory.

China: another avian influenza human death

24.01.2009

The Ministry of Health in China has announced the death of a previously confirmed case of H5N1 infection. The 16 year old male from Huaihua City, Hunan Province died on 20 January.

Canada: H5 avian influenza outbreak in B.C.

23.01.2009

As many as 60,000 turkeys (12-week-old) on a farm near Abbotsford, B.C., may be culled and their bodies likely composted due to a possible outbreak of avian influenza. Initial testing has shown birds at E & H Farms are infected with avian influenza virus. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is awaiting final confirmation from a lab in Winnipeg. In an effort to contain the virus, 22 commercial farms in a three-kilometre radius surrounding E & H Farms have been under quarantine since the virus was initially detected Wednesday night (21/1).

Egypt reports H5N1 in poultry

22.01.2009

Veterinary authorities in Egypt reported H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks in two governorates. Both of Egypt's outbreaks involved backyard poultry. One of the outbreaks involved 53 chickens, ducks, and geese in Reva village in Asyut governorate. The vaccination status of the birds is not known. Asyut governorate is located in the middle of Egypt on the banks of the Nile River. In the other outbreak, the virus struck 15 chickens, ducks, and geese in Seila Ezbet Edris village in Faiyum governorate. All of the birds had been vaccinated in 2008, the SAIDR report said. Faiyum governorate is in north-central Egypt, about 80 miles southwest of Cairo.

Indonesia: two dead from avian influenza

22.01.2009

The Ministry of Health of Indonesia has announced two new confirmed cases of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. A 29-year-old female from Tangerang District, Banten Province developed symptoms on 11 December 2008, was hospitalized on 13 December and died on 16 December. The investigation indicated that she visited a wet market to buy fresh produce, including chicken meat, on a daily basis. Household contacts were placed under medical observation, where none developed illness.

Low pathogenic avian influenza in Poland the link to the German outbreak

19.01.2009

On 29 December, Poland reported suspicion of disease in turkeys on a poultry farm in Boguszyce, Goleniowski district (Zachodniopomorskie region). Initial laboratory tests were weakly positive to avian influenza. Birds were culled on the 4 January 2009 (19,335 turkeys). Epidemiological evidence showed link to a hatchery in Germany, in an affected region. Turkeys has been transported to Poland on 11/12/2008 from Boesel, Germany (region affected with LPAI H5N3). Positive test results for LPAI H5 were obtained.

China Reports 3 new human avian influenza cases

19.01.2009

The Ministry of Health in China has reported 3 new cases of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The first case is a 27 year old female from Jinan City, Shandong Province. She developed symptoms on 5 January, was hospitalized, and died on 17 January. The source of her infection is presently under investigation. The second case is a 2 year old female from Luliang City, Shanxi Province. She developed symptoms on 7 January, was hospitalized, and is in a critical condition. The source of her infection is presently under investigation. The third case is a 16 year old male from Huaihua City, Hunan Province. He developed symptoms on 8 January, was hospitalized on 16 January, and is in a critical condition.

Nepal reports first outbreak of avian influenza

16.01.2009

Nepal

H5N1 strain of avian influenza was diagnosed in backyard poultry in Kakarvitta (Jhapa) - Nepal. The area is a major border transit point for goods and animals from neighbouring Indian states of West Bengal and Assam. Nepal banned imports of ducks and chicken from India last month, citing growing reports of avian influenza cases in West Bengal and Assam, but smuggling continues. This is the first avian influenza H5N1 outbreak in Nepal.

Update: LPAI in Germany

16.01.2009

The total number of outbreaks in Lower Saxony is 30. Tha latest was confirmed on 14 January 2009. To date, around 475,000 turkeys have been culled. All outbreaks except one have occurred on turkey farms. The other outbreak was on a mixed holding where turkeys were also kept and geese and ducks were affected as well. The majority of infected premises are within Garrel and Bosel in Lower Saxony.

Germany: Turkeys culled in avian influenza outbreak

15.01.2009

Germany - H5N3

Around half a million turkeys have been culled since December in a avian influenza outbreak sweeping an area of northern Germany. Some 38,000 birds were killed this week on three farms near the town of Cloppenburg, about 100 kilometres south of Hamburg. Some 14,700 of the birds were infected with the H5N3 strain. The others were put to death as a precaution. Officials set up an exclusion zone around the affected farms.

Two-year-old girl becomes latest avian influenza victim in Egypt

13.01.2009

New case of avian influenza has been confirmed in a young girl in Egypt. Tests confirmed that a two-year-old girl, who lives outside Cairo, had contracted the deadly H5N1 virus. the girl's symptoms started on Jan 9 and she was admitted the next day to Imbaba Fever Hospital with fever, cough, vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid respiration. Her illness is listed as Egypt's 52nd H5N1 case. The patient is from Kerdasa district, in 6th of October governorate on the western outskirts of Cairo. Her medical team immediately suspected avian influenza and treated the girl with oseltamivir (Tamiflu), 40 hours after the onset of her symptoms.

Vietnam: Avian Influenza vaccination

09.01.2009

Vaccination

Vietnamese Minister of Agricultural and Rural Development Cao Duc Phat approved a plan to spend seven million U.S. dollars on buying avian influenza vaccination. The decision followed several recent avian influenza outbreaks and one human infection case. The minister sent an urgent message to ask all localities nationwide to tighten the prevention of the disease and make sure all poultry are vaccinated. Phat also asked all localities to set up strict controls over the trade, transport, slaughtering and consumption of poultry to prevent the disease from spreading to humans.

Germany: A turkey farm suspected of avian influenza

08.01.2009

A low pathogenic form of avian influenza has possible been found at a turkey farm in the German area Cloppenburg. Al the 4,800 animals have been culled and investigation has to confirm whether it really is avian influenza.

Vietnam: new human H5N1 case

07.01.2009

The Ministry of Health in Viet Nam has reported a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case has been confirmed at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). The case is an 8-year old girl from Dien Trung commune, Ba Thuoc district, Thanh Hoa province. She developed symptoms on 27 December 2008 and was hospitalized on 2 January 2009. She is currently in a stable condition. The case is known to have had recent contact with sick and dead poultry prior to the onset of her illness.

Chinese teenager dies from H5N1 avian influenza virus

07.01.2009

The Ministry of Health in China has reported a new case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case is a 19-year old female from Chaoyang District, Beijing. She developed symptoms on 24 Dec 2008, was hospitalized, and died on 5 January 2009. The case was confirmed by the national laboratory. The case had contact with poultry prior to her illness. All contacts have been placed under medical observation.

Korea: Low pathogenic avian influenza reported

02.01.2009

H5N2 avian influenza low pathogenic strain was identified in a Duck farm, in Ch'ngch'ong-Bukdo - South Korea. As part of the on-going control measures for avian influenza in the Republic of Korea, surveillance has been conducted since last September in all duck farms. On 29 December 2008, faecal samples collected from the duck farm tested positive to haemagglutination (HA) test.