According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the outbreak was reported on 26 September after presence of the H5N3 strain was confirmed on 25 September.

Nucleotide sequencing and real-time reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction (RRT-PCR) tests were carried out at the ANSES Reference National Laboratory for Avian Influenza, Ploufragan, confirming the presence of the LPAI virus.

A total of 8500 birds have been found susceptible, out of which six turkey deaths were reported.

The OIE reports that samples were taken in the framework of a clinical suspicion (eggs drop) in a turkey breeding farm.

A one-km protection zone was implemented around the outbreak. Stamping out of the turkeys took place on 26 and 27 September.

The source of the outbreak has not yet been determined, and as a result, several control measures have been applied, some which include:

• Movement control inside the country
• Screening
• Traceability
• Stamping out
• Surveillance within containment and/or protection zone
• Zoning

Vaccination has been prohibited and there has been no treatment of affected birds.

Map of outbreak locations [Photo: OIE]

Further Reading

You can visit the Avian Flu page by clicking here.