WattAgNet: Ivory Coast has 1st H5N1 avian influenza case in 8 years

Backyard flock is believed to have been infected through contact with wild birds
Release Date: 2015-05-29
Ivory Coast has had its first confirmed case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in more than 8 years, according to a report from the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

A backyard flock of 138 birds in Bouake, was affected, with 98 birds infected, 93 of which died, OIE reported. The source of the outbreak is believed to have been contact with wild birds that had been carrying the H5N1 avian influenza virus.

Samples from the flock were taken to the Central Veterinary Laboratory of LANADA, where they tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza. Ivory Coast’s last confirmed case of H5N1 avian influenza occurred in January 2007.

Control measures taken so far include quarantine, movement control inside the country and screening. Plans are in the works to depopulate the remaining susceptible birds on the premises, to implement zoning, to conduct dipping and spraying activities and to disinfect the affected property.

OIE stated on its website that it will submit weekly follow-up reports on the Ivory Coast avian influenza situation until it is resolved.

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