South Korea finds H5 avian influenza antigen at Yeoncheon layer farm

South Korean authorities have detected H5 avian influenza antigen at a layer farm in Yeoncheon County, Gyeonggi Province. The farm, which keeps about 91,000 hens, is the first domestic poultry site to test positive for H5 antigen this winter.

Further testing is under way to establish whether the virus is highly pathogenic. Results were expected within one to three days.

Authorities have restricted access to the premises, started quarantine measures and prepared to cull the flock. Yeoncheon County has also activated its emergency response headquarters.

A nationwide standstill order was in effect from 11 a.m. on 4 November until 11 a.m. on 5 November. It covered poultry farms, related businesses, workers and vehicles.

The farm detection comes days after South Korea confirmed highly pathogenic H5N1 in wild-bird droppings collected near Gimpo on 19 October. The result was confirmed on 26 October and announced the following day.

Authorities have urged poultry producers to follow movement restrictions and strengthen access controls and disinfection at their farms.