Israel Reports Avian Influenza Outbreak in Turkey Farm

Jerusalem — Israel's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development reported an outbreak of avian influenza in the northern Gilboa region.

In a statement, the ministry confirmed the outbreak at a turkey farm in Ram-On village, home to 34,000 poultry, located in the northern West Bank. This marks the second reported avian flu outbreak in Israel in 2024, following an earlier case earlier this month in Nahalal village, approximately 20 kilometers north of Ram-On.

All poultry farms within a 10-kilometer radius of the infection site have been quarantined, and strict monitoring of the farms is in place to prevent further spread. The ministry urged ornamental bird breeders and poultry farm owners to keep birds in enclosed areas to reduce the risk of infection.

Additionally, the ministry advised the public to purchase eggs that are properly packaged and labeled from regulated outlets, and to ensure poultry and eggs are thoroughly cooked, baked, or fried before consumption.

Avian influenza is highly contagious and can infect various animal species, including cats, pigs, and even tigers. However, human infection remains rare.

Source: Xinhuathai.com