#UK {#Scotland} - High pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1 viruses (#poultry) (Inf. with) - Immediate notification

 

~155K laying chickens’ flock. Samples taken were positive for HPAI H5N1. Birds presented clinical signs prior to testing.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7139

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#Remdesivir as a potent #antiviral against prototype and current #epidemic #Oropouche virus #strains (BeAn19991 and PE-IAM4637)

 

Highlights

• We generated a recombinant reporter OROV that expresses the eGFP fluorescent protein in infected cells.

• We found that remdesivir efficiently inhibited the replication of Oropouche virus (OROV) using this reporter OROV.

• We demonstrated strain-dependent differences in the replication efficiency of OROV.

Abstract

The Oropouche virus (OROV), an orthobunyavirus transmitted by biting midges, is the causative agent of Oropouche fever, which has caused multiple outbreaks in South and Central America. During the most recent epidemic in 2023–2025, more than 25,000 laboratory-confirmed cases were reported in Brazil, and no licensed antivirals have been reported to be effective date. In this study, we generated a recombinant OROV-expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (rOROV/GFP) to facilitate rapid and sensitive antiviral evaluation. Growth kinetics demonstrated that rOROV/GFP replicated less efficiently than wild-type rOROV and that the historical prototype strain (BeAn19991) exhibited higher replication efficiency than the recent epidemic isolate (PE-IAM4637) in both Vero E6 and Huh7 cells. Using this system, we evaluated the antiviral activity of ribavirin, favipiravir (T-705), and remdesivir against OROV. All three compounds inhibited OROV replication in a dose-dependent manner, with remdesivir showing the greatest potency (IC₅₀ values of 0.31 µM). Taken together, our findings highlight remdesivir as a promising candidate for the treatment of Oropouche fever caused by OROV. Furthermore, we established rOROV/GFP as a powerful tool for antiviral drug screening.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168170225001583?via%3Dihub

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The angel of the abyss and the infernal locusts, Ende (c. 975)

 

Public Domain.

Source: 

Link: https://www.wikiart.org/en/ende/the-angel-of-the-abyss-and-the-infernal-locusts-975

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#Influenza PA #Substitutions and Genetic Diversity of #H1N1pdm09, #H3N2, and B/Victoria Viruses in #Japan During the 2023–2024 Season

 

Abstract

We characterized influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and B/Victoria viruses circulating in Japan during 2023–2024, focusing on lineage placement relative to WHO-recommended vaccine strains and on baloxavir resistance (PA/I38T substitutions). We enrolled 210 outpatients with influenza-like illness across eight clinics in six prefectures (October 2023–September 2024). Of these, 209 had an analyzable pre-treatment respiratory specimen for RT-PCR; hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes were sequenced by next-generation sequencing (NGS). PA/I38T substitutions that confer baloxavir resistance were assessed by cycling-probe RT-PCR, Sanger sequencing, and NGS. HA phylogenies were constructed with global datasets and WHO vaccine reference strains. Of 209 pre-treatment specimens, 181 were influenza-positive (A(H1N1)pdm09 44.2%, A(H3N2) 37.6%, B/Victoria 18.2%); 51 follow-up specimens were collected ≈4–5 days after baloxavir or neuraminidase inhibitor therapy. HA phylogeny placed A(H1N1)pdm09 in clades 5a.2a/5a.2a.1 with predominance of subclade D.2. A(H3N2) clustered exclusively in clade 2a.3a.1 (J lineage, mostly J.1), indicating a mismatch with the season’s A/Darwin/9/2021 vaccine component and supporting the subsequent J-lineage update. All B/Victoria genomes fell within V1A.3a.2 on a C.5 backbone (C.5.1 and C.5.7). No PA/I38T variant was detected in any pre-treatment specimen. Post-baloxavir, PA/I38T emerged in one A(H3N2) case (confirmed by all three methods) and in one B/Victoria case detected by NGS only (minority variant in a low-load sample). NA genes showed no substitutions associated with reduced susceptibility to laninamivir (e.g., E119A, G147E). During 2023–2024, A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria remained genetically aligned with their vaccine components, whereas A(H3N2) shifted to the J lineage, consistent with the 2024–2025 vaccine update. Although pre-treatment PA/I38T was absent, low-frequency on-therapy selection was observed, including a rare PA/I38T in influenza B/Victoria detected by NGS, suggesting the value of deep sequencing when viral loads are low. These integrated genomic–clinical data support vaccine strain realignment for H3N2 and continued monitoring of baloxavir resistance in outpatient care.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/1/13

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#mRNA-lipid nanoparticle #vaccines provide protection against lethal #Nipah virus #infection

 

Abstract

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes severe encephalitis and respiratory disease in humans and multiple mammalian species. However, no licensed vaccines or therapeutics are currently available against NiV infection. In this study, we developed three mRNA vaccine candidates using a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery platform: mRNA-F-LNP, comprising mRNA encoding the fusion protein (F); mRNA-G-LNP, containing mRNA encoding the attachment glycoprotein (G); and mRNA-GF-LNP, in which mRNAs encoding both F and G proteins were co-encapsulated at a 1:1 molar ratio. All three mRNA-LNPs induced robust and sustained immune responses in both mice and Syrian hamsters. Sera from immunized Syrian hamster showed high levels of cross-neutralizing antibodies against both NiV-Malaysia (NiV-M) and NiV-Bangladesh (NiV-B) strains. Notably, all three mRNA-LNPs conferred complete protection against a lethal challenge with NiV-M in Syrian hamsters. These findings demonstrate that these mRNA-based vaccines are highly immunogenic and efficacious, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for NiV vaccine development.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41541-025-01336-1

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Effectiveness of #nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and #molnupiravir in reducing the #risk of short-term and long-term #cardiovascular complications of #COVID19: a target trial emulation study

 

Abstract

While treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir or molnupiravir is effective in lowering the rate of severe COVID-19, the effectiveness of these antivirals in reducing the risk of cardiovascular outcomes, especially among the hospitalized population, remains largely unknown. In this study, we assessed the real-world effectiveness of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and molnupiravir on short- and long-term cardiovascular complications of COVID-19 using a target trial emulation design. Two target trials of COVID-19 antivirals were emulated by using a territory-wide, population-based, retrospective cohort of hospitalized patients in Hong Kong. Nine cardiovascular outcomes were evaluated in both short-term (day 0–21) and long-term (day 22–365) post-SARS-CoV-2 infection. Compared with the control group, the use of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was associated with a significantly lower one-year risk of cardiovascular mortality, composite cardiovascular complications, major adverse cardiac events, cerebrovascular disorders, dysrhythmia, ischemic heart disease, and other cardiac disorders following infection. Molnupiravir use was associated with a short-term risk reduction in cardiovascular complications, but only a marginal risk reduction in long-term cardiovascular mortality among other complications. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in reducing the risks of short- and long-term cardiovascular complications following a SARS-CoV-2 infection among the hospitalized population. Our findings suggested health-related benefits of prescribing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir over molnupiravir against severe cardiovascular post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 in the long term.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-67776-4

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#Serological evidence of concurrent #Lassa virus and #SARS-CoV-2 #exposure in #Ghana- a cross-sectional study

 

Abstract

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities in infectious disease surveillance, especially in West Africa where endemic viruses including Lassa fever persist. The overlapping clinical symptoms of these two infections create diagnostic challenges and the possibility of undetected co-infections.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using archived serum samples from a nationwide SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence survey in Ghana. 434 samples across six regions were tested for SARS-CoV-2 total antibodies (IgG/IgM) using the WANTAI ELISA kit and Lassa virus IgG using ReLASV Pan-Lassa-NP-IgG ELISA.

Results

SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence was 64.29% (n = 279) and Lassa virus IgG prevalence was 20.28% (n = 88). Of the cohort of subjects who were seropositive for SARS-CoV-2, 20.79% were also seropositive for LASV IgG. Multivariate analysis revealed household size as a strong risk factor of dual exposure. Individuals from medium-sized households (4–6 persons) (aOR = 8.78, 95% CI: 1.18–65.56, p = 0.034) and large households (≥ 7 persons) (aOR = 12.90, 95% CI: 1.99–83.40, p = 0.007) had significantly increased odds of dual seropositivity compared to small households. Regional variations were observed, with Greater Accra showing significantly lower odds of dual seropositivity (aOR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.03–0.51, p = 0.004) compared to Ashanti Region.

Conclusion

This study provides serological evidence of SARS-CoV-2 and Lassa virus concurrent exposure in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding suggests large household size as a key driver of dual viral exposure and calls for integrated surveillance systems and targeted interventions in large household settings to reduce concurrent transmission of viruses with pandemic potential.

Source: 

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12879-025-12385-1

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#Coronavirus Disease Research #References (by AMEDEO, Dec. 21 '25)

 

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Source: 

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#Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Research #References (by AMEDEO, Dec. 21 '25)

 

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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Arch Virol

2. BEDAIR NM, Sakr MA, Mourad A, Eissa N, et al
   Genetic characterization of highly pathogenic avian influenza A/H5N8 virus isolated from commercial poultry farms in Egypt reveals zoonotic potential.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Biochemistry

3. WESTMAN H, Hammarstrom P, Nystrom S
   SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Amyloid Fibrils Impair Fibrin Formation and Fibrinolysis.
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   Epidemiol Infect

4. STADHOUDERS L, Hoogteijling EM, Duijts L, Lebon A, et al
   Trends in asthma exacerbations in children before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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   J Clin Microbiol

5. BATAC ALR, Marks M, Tucker JD, Peeling RW, et al
   Syphilis self-testing and implications for syphilis control and prevention.
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6. EASTON V, McPhillie MJ, Santos IA, Hall P, et al
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7. ZHU MQ, Kuan G, Maier HE, Lopez R, et al
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   JAMA

9. ZAMBON M, Hayden FG
   Influenza A(H3N2) Subclade K Virus: Threat and Response.
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10. SCHWEITZER K
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    PLoS One

11. OH YJ, Rasul ME, Lim JI, Calabrese C, et al
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Source: 

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History of Mass Transportation: The Renfe Class 307 Brissonneau et Lotz Diesel-Electric Locomotive

By Thierry Leleu - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2390060

Source: 

Link: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Renfe_class_307

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Emergence of #mammalian-adaptive #PB2 #mutations enhances #polymerase activity and #pathogenicity of #cattle-derived #H5N1 #influenza A virus

 

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 poses an increasing public health risk, particularly following its spillover into dairy cows and associated human infections in the U.S. since March 2024. Here, we systematically identified critical PB2 mutations emerged during avian-to-cattle transmission and subsequent adaptation in cattle, notably PB2 M631L, which conferred pathogenicity in mice comparable to the well-characterized PB2 E627K mutation. Retrospective analysis reveals that PB2 631L also circulated in avian and human H5N1 strains during the 2013–2014 outbreaks in Cambodia and Vietnam. Additional adaptive mutations include established markers (E627K, Q591R, D701N), and novel variants (I647V, G685R, K736R). These mutations enhance polymerase activity by improving the utilization of both bovine and human ANP32A proteins, thereby increasing viral fitness and pathogenicity in mammals. The convergence of these adaptations highlights the elevated zoonotic risk of cattle-adapted H5N1 viruses and underscores the urgent need for heightened surveillance across avian and mammalian hosts.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-67753-x

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History of Mass Transportation: The SNCF X 5800 Renault Autorail

 

Par SylvainAmbert — Travail personnel, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=111556121

Source: 

Link: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/X_5800

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#Replication and #Transmission of #Influenza A Virus in Farmed #Mink

 

Abstract

Farmed mink are frequently exposed to circulating influenza A viruses (IAVs), as confirmed by viral isolation and serological evidence. Previous work reveals that naïve mink serve as susceptible hosts for both avian and human influenza strains, highlighting their potential role in influenza ecology. In this study, we investigated whether farmed mink naturally pre-exposed to H9 retain the capacity to serve as “mixing vessels” for reassorting human and avian IAVs. Our results demonstrate that they remain fully susceptible and permissive to infection by both avian H6N6 and human H1N1 influenza strains. Notably, efficient transmission of these viruses occurred among farmed mink, confirming their potential to sustain viral exchange. These findings indicate that farmed mink represent highly permissive hosts capable of facilitating reassortment between circulating human and avian IAVs. Given this risk, current mink farming practices may substantially increase the likelihood of a pandemic emergence. We therefore urge immediate revision, stringent enhancement, and rigorous enforcement of biosecurity protocols and active surveillance systems in fur farming operations.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/1/9

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#Cats infected with #H5N1 avian #influenza – a new infectious disease in #Poland

 

Abstract

Avian influenza virus (AIV) infections in cats are a new and not fully understood  problem in Poland. These infections have drawn the attention of both veterinarians  and human medical practitioners, mainly because of their zoonotic  potential, i.e. possible spreading to humans and other mammals. In wild felids as  well as in domestic cats, AIV can cause severe infections, often ending in death.  Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) and low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV) have been identified, with the recent H5N1 (2.3.4.4b  clade) outbreak affecting poultry, wild birds and carnivores.  Transmission likely occurs through contact with infected birds, their excretions or  contaminated raw poultry, while cat-to-cat transmission remains unconfirmed.  First reported in Thailand in 2003, H5N1 infections in cats have since occurred in  multiple countries. In Poland, 25 confirmed cases were identified in June 2023,  with genetic sequencing linking the virus to strains detected in local wild birds.  The virus primarily replicates in the lower respiratory tract, spreading via viremia  or nerve fibers, causing multi-organ failure. While avian influenza in cats is severe  and often fatal, it should not yet be considered an epidemic. Further  interdisciplinary research is essential to clarify transmission routes and assess the  zoonotic risk. Additionally, differential diagnosis should include rabies, which presents similar neurological symptoms and remains a critical public health  concern. This article presents the current knowledge of H5N1 virus infection in  cats, especially the possible routes for its spreading, the current epizootic  situation of the disease around the world, its pathogenesis, clinical course and  methods of diagnosis.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.pan.pl/dlibra/publication/157284/edition/137625/content

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#Genetic characterization of highly pathogenic avian #influenza #H5N8 virus isolated from commercial #poultry #farms in #Egypt reveals zoonotic potential

 

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N8 virus, first identified in late 2016 in Egypt, continues to circulate and has replaced the previously dominant HPAI H5N1 virus of clade 2.2.1. In this study, HPAI H5N8 was detected on 23 commercial poultry farms in Egypt. Complete genome sequences of three isolates collected in 2021 were obtained using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and subjected to genetic characterization. Phylogenetic analysis showed these isolates to belong to clade 2.3.4.4b, comprising two genotypes: EA-2021-Q and EA-2020-A. Molecular analysis of the haemagglutinin (HA) protein revealed the presence of T156A and V538A substitutions in the duck isolate and an N183S substitution in the chicken isolate. Several additional nonsynonymous mutations were identified, including 147I and 504V in the PB2 protein, 127V, 672L, and 550L in the PA protein, 64F and 69P in the M2 protein, and 42S in the NS1 protein. Comparative analysis of HA antigenic sites between these isolates and the human vaccine against H5N8 revealed four nonsynonymous mutations: S141P, A154N, D45N, and V174I. Notably, the HA sequences of the studied isolates shared 98.7–99.4% amino acid sequence identity, and the NA sequences shared 96.1–97.1% identity to those of the 2.3.4.4b candidate human H5N8 vaccine strain (CVV) A/Astrakhan/3212/2020-like. These findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring of the genetic evolution of avian influenza viruses to guide updates of candidate vaccine strains. Furthermore, the high similarity between the detected isolates and a zoonotic Russian H5N8 wild-type strain highlights the potential risk of cross-species transmission and possible human infection.

Source: 

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00705-025-06479-z

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#USA. #Update: #Genetic Sequencing Results for #Wisconsin Dairy #Herd Detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 (#USDA, Dec. 20 '25): Clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1

 

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 19, 2025

On December 14, 2025, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the first detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dairy herd in Wisconsin. 

On December 17, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) completed whole genome sequencing and confirmed that the virus is H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1. 

Analysis indicates that this detection is a new spillover event from wildlife into dairy cattle, separate from previous events.

Key Points

-- Most detections in U.S. dairy herds have resulted from movements linked to the original spillover event that occurred in the Texas Panhandle in late 2023, involving the B3.13 strain.

-- In early 2025, through the National Milk Testing Strategy, USDA detected two spillover events in Nevada and Arizona dairy herds. Both were identified early, and no further herd infections occurred through animal movements. These events involved the D1.1 strain.

-- The Wisconsin herd, also detected through the National Milk Testing Strategy, represents a new, separate spillover event and involves the D1.1 strain. At this time, no additional dairy herds have been identified as infected in association with this event.

Public Health and Food Safety

-- This detection does not pose a risk to consumer health or affect the safety of the commercial milk supply. 

-- Pasteurization effectively inactivates HPAI virus, and milk from affected animals is diverted or destroyed to prevent entry into the food supply. 

-- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to consider the risk to the public to be low.

The Importance of Biosecurity

-- USDA remains committed to working with state partners to monitor, investigate, and mitigate the spread of HPAI in livestock. 

-- The detection does not change USDA’s HPAI eradication strategy. Biosecurity is still key to mitigating the risk of disease introduction or spread between premises.

APHIS recommends enhanced biosecurity measures for all dairy farms. Producers should immediately report any livestock with clinical signs, or any unusual sick or dead wildlife, to their state veterinarian.

Source: 

Link: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/update-genetic-sequencing-results-wisconsin-dairy-herd-detection-highly

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Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza: #Tracking the #Progression from IAV #H5N1 to IAV #H7N9 and Preparing for Emerging Challenges

 

Abstract

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) viruses, particularly IAV (H5N1), continue to pose a major global threat due to their widespread circulation and high mortality rates in birds. Management of HPAI is complicated by challenges in conserving migratory bird populations, sustaining poultry production, and uncertainties in disease dynamics. Structured decision-making frameworks, such as those based on the PrOACT model, are recommended to improve outbreak response and guide critical actions, especially when HPAI virus (HPAIV) detections occur in sensitive areas like wildlife refuges. Surveillance data from late 2024 to early 2025 show persistent HPAI activity, with 743 detections across 22 European countries and beyond, and notable outbreaks in poultry in nations like Hungary, Iceland, and the UK. The proximity of poultry farms to water sources increases environmental contamination risks. Meanwhile, HPAI A(IAV (H5N1)) and other H5Nx viruses have been detected in a wide range of mammalian species globally, raising concerns about mammalian adaptation due to mutations like E627K and D701N in the PB2 protein. Human infections with IAV (H5N1) have also been reported, with recent cases in North America highlighting zoonotic transmission risks. Molecular studies emphasize the importance of monitoring genetic variations associated with increased virulence and antiviral resistance. Preventive strategies focus on biosafety, personal protective measures, and vaccine development for both avian and human populations. Ongoing genetic characterization and vigilant surveillance remain critical to managing the evolving threat posed by HPAI viruses.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/14/1/12

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (#CDC, Dec. 19 '25)

 

{Excerpt}

Time Period: December 07, 2025 - December 13, 2025 {*}

-- H5 Detection:  3 site(s) (0.7%)

-- No Detection: 451 site(s) (99.3%)

-- No samples in last week: 37 site(s)

{*} Note: The H5 detection at site 2030 in Virginia is a result of a data error and is a false detection. This will be corrected in the next update.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/wwd-h5.html

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#Sweden - High pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1 viruses (#poultry) (Inf. with) - Immediate notification

{Höör Region} A farm with parent poultry. All animals were euthanized 18 December. A protection zone (3 km) and a surveillance zone (10 km) have been put in place around the infected farm and all other restrictions and necessary measures according to Regulation (EU) 2016/429 and EU DR 2020/687 are applied.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7136

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#Poland - High pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1 viruses (#poultry) (Inf. with) - Immediate notification

 

A poultry farm in Łódzkie Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7137

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