Source: Chris Scott, MEATINGPLACE, 9/22/14


The World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) are all taking a close look at what’s being called a new threat to animal health and the poultry industry.

Authorities say the H5N6 strain of avian influenza first reported in China in April is of particular concern because it has been detected in several far-reaching areas of Southeast Asia and it can kill poultry within 72 hours. The strain also has been reported in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Vietnam, according to the FAO.

Current evidence suggests that H5N6 poses a limited threat to humans, although one human case of infection was seen soon after the virus was discovered in China and that person later died.

The agencies are asking all countries in Asia to continue to monitor the potential spread of the virus among chickens and geese and to report any outbreaks, especially in the wake of the 2014 outbreak of H5N1 and H7N9.

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