Fortified Defense Against AI Infiltration: Yangsan City Mobilizes Full Quarantine Efforts with 24-Hour Disinfection Facilities

Amid growing concerns over the nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) following confirmed cases at a broiler breeder farm in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, as well as in wild birds in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province, and Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province, the city of Yangsan has launched an all-out response to prevent further outbreaks.

Disinfection of High Pathogenic AI Quarantine Control Post. Provided by Yangsan City

Since September 22, the city has implemented a total of 11 administrative orders to block the entry of highly pathogenic AI into the region, including prohibiting access to migratory bird habitats and banning free-range poultry farming.

In addition, Yangsan has established special countermeasures for highly pathogenic AI and tailored quarantine management plans for densely populated areas, thereby strengthening its disease control system.

Key quarantine measures include: ▲ Operating a quarantine countermeasures situation room and maintaining a 24-hour emergency system ▲ Controlling and disinfecting livestock vehicles through base disinfection facilities and movement control posts ▲ Designating and operating AI field inspection teams and dedicated managers for poultry farms ▲ Establishing a cooperative system with related agencies such as the Yangsan-Gijang Livestock Cooperative ▲ Strengthening regular AI testing and surveillance activities ▲ Restricting access to and disinfecting migratory bird habitats ▲ Mobilizing all available resources for disinfection using quarantine strategy maps.

In particular, since October 29, Yangsan has set up the "Yangsan City AI Quarantine Countermeasures Headquarters" to mount a comprehensive response to AI. Following the issuance of a "Highly Pathogenic AI Risk Alert" on November 7 and the launch of a nationwide intensive disinfection week, the city is intensifying disinfection efforts from November 8 to 21, focusing on vulnerable areas such as densely populated zones.

An official from Yangsan City stated, "Since November, winter migratory birds have been arriving in full force, and cases of highly pathogenic AI are increasing in both poultry farms and wild birds. We urge poultry farms and related facilities to remain vigilant, thoroughly implement disinfection and access controls, closely monitor farmed poultry, and immediately report any suspected AI cases to ensure robust prevention and control."