Japan Confirms Second Bird Flu Outbreak, Orders Culling of 40,000 Chickens

Japan has confirmed its second highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak of the season at a poultry farm in Chiba Prefecture, where about 40,000 chickens are being kept.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries said genetic tests confirmed the infection on Friday at a farm in Asahi City. The outbreak was reported after the farmer noticed unusual symptoms among the birds on Thursday.

Authorities have ordered the culling of approximately 40,000 laying hens, with the carcasses to be disposed of through burial or incineration to prevent further spread of the disease.

Movement restrictions will be imposed within three kilometres of the affected farm, while poultry shipments will be restricted within a 10-kilometre radius. Nearby farms will also be inspected, and disinfection checkpoints established along major roads.

An investigation team will examine the possible source of the infection and how the virus spread. The ministry has also urged prefectures across the country to strengthen surveillance and report suspected cases promptly.

Meanwhile, the ministry says consuming chicken meat and eggs does not pose a risk of bird flu infection under current conditions in Japan.