New cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Colombia and Mexico have been reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
In both countries, the serotype of the virus detected was H5N1.
Avian influenza in Colombia
Colombian animal heath officials notified the WOAH that the virus was found on two premises in the municipality of Acandí.
This is the first time Colombian animal health officials have reported cases of H5N1 HPAI in the country to the WOAH, according to the WOAH report.
Both cases were confirmed on October 18, and both involved farms that had domestic birds living among wild birds. Neither farm had biosecurity measures in place. At one farm, 80 birds died, and at the other, six birds died. Clinical signs among birds at both locations included were neurological, respiratory and digestive disorders.
According to WOAH, after the outbreaks were detected, epidemiological surveillance and control activities were launched. Surviellance and protection zones were established. As a control measure, the affected premises and the municipality of Acandí were quarantined to prevent movement of animals and products to other territories. Stamping out of affected animals and in-contacts on the premises where the disease was detected has begun.
Avian influenza in Mexico
WOAH also recently reported the presence of H5N1 HPAI in a single bird Metepec, Mexico.
The affected bird was a gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus), which was used for the sport of falconry.
The bird had fed on prey collected in the Lerma River basin, located in the state of Mexico. The animal became ill, showing mainly respiratory and nervous signs and blindness, and was taken to a veterinary clinic. The animal died 72 hours after showing clinical signs, according to the WOAH. The event was immediately reported by the veterinarian to the health authority. Specialized personnel performed the necropsy and observed congestion and generalized hemorrhages.
Read our ongoing coverage of the global avian influenza outbreak.
