Comprehensive Inspection of Disease Control Measures
in 18 High-Risk Cities and Counties
The government is launching a proactive, intensive inspection of high-risk areas in preparation for the possible outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) this winter.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on October 15 that, in order to prepare for highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks this winter and address any gaps in disease control, it will conduct focused inspections of regions with a high risk of AI outbreaks through October 24.
This inspection was prompted by the occurrence of highly pathogenic AI at a poultry farm in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, on September 12, which was earlier than in previous years, and by the increased likelihood of additional domestic outbreaks as migratory birds begin arriving in earnest from October. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs will form joint inspection teams with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, and relevant city and provincial officials to carry out these inspections.
The ministry will conduct a comprehensive inspection of disease control measures at migratory bird habitats and vulnerable farms in 18 high-risk cities and counties nationwide where highly pathogenic AI has frequently recurred. Any deficiencies identified during this inspection will be addressed immediately, and the ministry plans to further verify whether corrective actions have been implemented.
Choi Jeongrok, Director General of the Quarantine Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said, "This inspection is a measure to thoroughly identify and address risk factors for highly pathogenic avian influenza in advance," adding, "We will continue to inspect the disease control status of poultry farms, related facilities, and livestock vehicles to do our utmost to prevent highly pathogenic avian influenza this winter."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
