WattAgNet: Low pathogenic H5N2 avian flu hits Mexican layer farm

Layer operation in state of Sinaloa housed 433,093 chickens

A low pathogenic strain of H5N2 avian influenza has been detected in a commercial layer operation in El Rosario, in the Mexican state of Sinaloa.

The outbreak was announced by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on August 14.

No birds died as a result of contracting the avian influenza virus, but an estimated 433,093 chickens were reported as susceptible.

According to OIE, epidemiological surveillance activities were carried out by the Veterinary Services of Mexico, and the presence of H5N2 avian influenza in the flock was identified. Intravenous pathogenicity tests revealed that it was a low pathogenic form of the virus.

The egg production unit where the virus was found has been quarantined and a sanitary barrier has been set up. Despite the virus being a form of low pathogenic avian influenza, the birds will be euthanized, OIE reported.

Tests were conducted at three other commercial poultry farms and 33 backyard flocks within 10 kilometers of the affected farm, and those tests revealed no evidence that the virus had spread.

OIE  stated that the source of infection has not yet been determined. Weekly follow-up reports on the avian influenza case will be submitted by OIE until it is resolved.