H5N1 avian influenza outbreak occurs in India

An outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza has been reported in Chandigarh, India. The outbreak occurred in a flock of ducks.
A total of 100 ducks were susceptible to the virus, with 22 deaths, according to a report from the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
Tests were conducted by scientists at the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases on December 16, with all three tests proving positive.
Control measures applied include stamping out, quarantine, movement control inside the country, screening, dipping and spraying, and disinfection of the infected premises.
The latest outbreak in India follows an earlier outbreak of H5 avian influenza that occurred at two locations in Kerala, India. In that outbreak, 15,000 ducks out of a susceptible 228,807 birds died. At the other location, 500 of a susceptible 13,000 ducks died, according to the OIE.
Concerns about avian influenza have been widespread in the global poultry industry in recent months. Outbreaks of avian influenza have also been in The Netherlands, Germany, U.K., Japan, Italy, Canada and the United States. Several other countries have subsequently implemented trade bans involving countries affected by avian influenza.
OIE will submit follow-up reports on the most recent case of avian influenza in India until the matter is resolved.