Low-pathogenic Avian Flu Virus Detected in Netherlands
NETHERLANDS - The Dutch veterinary authorities have found the low-pathogenic avian influenza (H5N3) virus at a poultry farm in Groningen in the north-east of the country.
4 December 2013
2 minute read
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) received an immediate notification on Monday, 2 December, upon confirmation of the presence of the LPAI virus, serotype H5N3.
The outbreak was initially observed on 27 November and confirmed on 30 November after a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was carried out at the Central Veterinary Institute in Lelystad.
According to the report sent to the OIE, a total of 9,301 birds were found susceptible, out of which 25 cases tested positive for the virus. All 9,301 birds were destroyed. The infection was sub-clinical.
On 30 November, a 1-km protection zone was established. In this one-km zone, there are no other premises. All susceptible animals on the infected premise have been killed.
The OIE, in conjunction with the Dutch veterinary authorities, have applied several measures such as stamping out, movement control inside the country, screening and zoning. Vaccination has been prohibited for the moment.
