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Japan detected the first case of highly pathogenic bird flu type H5 this season at a poultry farm in the south of the country, public broadcaster NHK reported on Saturday. The local government of Saga prefecture will cull about 40,000 birds at the farm, NHK said, citing Agriculture Ministry officials.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will convene relevant cabinet ministers to discuss measures to prevent the spread of the virus, NHK said.
- The virus was detected as a result of genetic testing carried out after some poultry were found dead on the farm on Friday, according to the report.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza has spread around the world in recent years, causing the slaughter of hundreds of millions of birds.
In Japan, a record 17.7 million poultry were slaughtered last season, prompting authorities to remain on high alert.
Avian influenza can have devastating consequences on poultry flocks, leading to massive loss of birds and resulting in considerable economic impacts for producers. Additionally, avian flu is a highly contagious disease among birds, making rapid identification and containment of outbreaks crucial to prevent uncontrolled spread and minimize losses.
Another significant reason is public health concern, as some types of bird flu viruses have the potential to infect humans. Although cases of transmission from birds to humans are relatively rare, the ability of these viruses to mutate and adapt raises concern in the scientific and health community.
Poultry farming must actively address the prevention and control of avian influenza not only due to the direct impact on poultry production, but also due to the importance of safeguarding public health and preventing possible pandemics.