10.12.2012

Epidemiological Situation: In September-October 2012, H5N2 outbreaks occurred in both industrial and rural poultry sectors.  3 outbreaks were identified in commercial sector.
From the 2nd of October till the 30th of November 5 more outbreaks of LPAI H5 subtype were detected:
On 4th October 2012 the NRL confirmed positive results for H5 LPAI virus in 3 industrial farms (i.e., fattening turkeys) in Mantua province.
On 8th October the NRL confirmed one more positive result in a industrial farm of fattening turkeys in Mantua Province.
On 18th October the NRL confirmed  positive results in a rural farm in Rome Province. Outbreaks in Lombardy region: 
Oct 2012: the NRL for Avian Influenza confirmed virological positivity H5 LPAI subtype for outbreaks 12/0012-12/0014-12/0015 and serological positivity for outbreak 12/0013. Farms were located in same area (DPPA) of outbreak 12/0009.
Late September a respiratory syndrome and increased mortality rate were detected in outbreaks 12/0012-12/0013-12/0014 Mild respiratory symptoms in October in outbreak 12/0015.

Birds involved:  122.766 fattening turkeys  Epidemiological investigation revealed  direct connection (the same poultry company, technicians and veterinary) between 12/0015 and 12/0013;  direct connection (proximity) between 12/0013 and 12/0014.
Depopulation in the area ended on 17th October. Outbreak in Lazio region:
22th Oct 2012: the NRL confirmed serological  positivity for H5 LPAI subtype in a rural farm located in Rome province  The farm was monitored as provided by national surveillance plan. The farm reared 750 laying hens for egg production.
No clinical signs or symptoms were reported.  Epidemiological investigation and depopulation are ongoing.