Prime Minister Han Seong-sook Issues Emergency Directive on Avian Flu Outbreak: "Prevent Further Spread"

Prime Minister Han Seong-sook issued an emergency directive on November 4 regarding the confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) at an egg-laying chicken farm in Yeoncheon County, Gyeonggi Province, instructing officials to "stay vigilant and ensure thorough initial quarantine measures to prevent further spread."

According to the Prime Minister's Office, Han was briefed on the situation that day and instructed, "Strictly implement biosecurity measures in accordance with emergency operating procedures, including controlling access to the affected farm, culling poultry, restricting movement for farms within the quarantine zone, and conducting disinfection."

She also emphasized, "Strictly manage temporary standstill orders for poultry farms, related livestock facilities, and livestock vehicles to prevent transmission between farms."

She continued, "The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment must strengthen surveillance systems, including wild bird surveillance and testing as well as controlling access to migratory bird habitats, and local governments nationwide, including Gyeonggi Province, must bolster quarantine management by conducting weekly inspections and guidance on quarantine conditions for local egg-laying chicken farms."

"As this is the first outbreak of highly pathogenic AI this winter season, we must respond preemptively," Han urged. "Farms must strictly observe quarantine rules and report to quarantine authorities immediately if any suspected avian influenza symptoms are detected."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.