3 layer flocks struck by avian influenza in Argentina

Three new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in commercial laying hen flocks have been confirmed and reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

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C.Lotongkum I Shutterstock.com
C.Lotongkum I Shutterstock.com

Three new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in commercial laying hen flocks have been confirmed and reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

According to a recent WOAH report, two cases were confirmed in Buenos Aries and one was confirmed in Plottier.

In all three cases, high mortalities were noticed, and the birds in the flock were exhibiting symptoms consistent with HPAI.

In one of the Buenos Aries flocks, about 3,000 birds out of a total 10,000 susceptible hens had died, while in the other flock, about 1,000 of 60,000 susceptible hens died. In the Plottier flock, about 200 of 24,798 susceptible chickens had died.

Culling procedures are under way at all three premises.

HPAI was first confirmed in Argentina in late March. Since that time, several other cases in commercial layer flocks and multiple backyard flocks have been affected.

Guyana bans poultry imports

Wanting to protect its poultry, Guyana has banned the import of poultry or poultry products from other countries.

A Facebook post from the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture reads: “The Guyana Livestock Authority wishes to advise the general public that due to sanitary and other conditions, we will not allow the importation of poultry or poultry products. Anyone found in contradiction of this notice will be prosecuted in accordance with the Laws of Guyana.”

To date, Guyana has not had any cases of HPAI.

First case of HPAI in mammals in Uruguay

Earlier in May, the first case of HPAI in mammals in Uruguay was confirmed.

According to WOAH, animal health officials were notified of the death of four female South American coatis in the Natural Reserve in the department of Flores. Samples from the animals were sent to the official laboratory and those the samples tested positive for H5. During the week, 12 more animals died and were buried and disinfection was performed. 

The South American coati, also known as the ring-tailed coati, is a member of the raccoon family, found in the tropical and subtropical parts of South America. 

Uruguay has not had any commercial poultry affected by HPAI to date, but it has had backyard flocks affected. It was recently announced that an avian influenza vaccination program in the country has begun.

Read our ongoing coverage of the global avian influenza outbreak.

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