H5N2 detected, controlled in duck farm

CAIRO - 3 March 2019: A subtype of the species Influenza virus A, H5N2, was detected in a duck farm that was not abiding by precautionary rules; however, all necessary measures were taken to inhibit the rate of infection.

Deputy Agriculture Minister for Livestock Mona Mehrez told Egypt Today that a report on the case has been submitted to Minister Ezz el-Din Abou Steit. The condition was spotted after the result of sample analysis came out.

The General Authority for Veterinary Services carries out periodical check-ups, collecting samples from poultry farms.

Upon the detection of the disease, measures, including imposing a quarantine on the farm, getting rid of infected and dead poultry, cleaning the nests and the farm, and observing the area surrounding the farm over 3 to 5 kilometers for 21 days, are taken.

Livestock raised in households also receive free vaccination, and in case of infection, the observation covers an area stretching over 9 kilometers around the household. The authority also observes the tracks of migratory birds to detect any diseases.