Avian Influenza Detected at Namwon Farm... Jeonbuk Province Mobilizes All Efforts to Contain Spread

Strengthened Disease Control in 14 Cities and Counties
Culling and Movement Restrictions Implemented

Jeonbuk Province is making every effort to contain the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) after the first case of the season was confirmed at a broiler breeder farm in Namwon City this winter.

According to provincial authorities on December 17, immediate initial quarantine measures were implemented at the affected farm the previous day, including culling, movement restrictions, and disinfection. Emergency guidelines to strengthen disease control were also urgently communicated to all 14 cities and counties in the province.

Jeonbuk Provincial Government Office View. Provided by Jeonbuk Province

This incident marks the first highly pathogenic AI case in Jeonbuk Province this winter. In response, the provincial government has expanded monitoring and on-site inspections to all poultry farms in the region, not just those in the outbreak area.

The province has reinforced the operation of disinfection stations and mobilized all available resources, such as joint response teams, to prevent the virus from spreading. In addition, authorities are promoting awareness and providing on-site guidance to farm operators, urging them to report any clinical symptoms immediately. An emergency system has also been maintained to ensure rapid testing and prompt initial response to any suspected cases.

Jeonbuk Governor Kim Kwan-young stated, "This is a critical turning point in preventing the spread of AI. I urge all 14 cities and counties to thoroughly review their disease control systems and mobilize all available administrative resources. Basic measures such as monitoring, disinfection, and access control must be implemented flawlessly in the field, and regular inspections should be conducted to prevent any gaps in disease control."

Governor Kim particularly emphasized the importance of instilling the mindset of "I protect my own farm" among poultry farmers, and called for continued promotion of voluntary and preventive disease control, as well as strict compliance with the five key biosecurity rules.

The five key biosecurity rules include: two-step disinfection of all vehicles entering the premises, wearing dedicated clothing when entering poultry houses, closing secondary entrances, daily disinfection inside and outside the farm, and preventing intrusion by wild animals. If abnormal symptoms such as increased mortality or decreased egg production are observed, farms must report immediately to the disease control authorities.

Governor Kim further stressed, "This is a crucial time for the province and local governments to act as one. If we respond together with a sense of responsibility, we can effectively prevent further spread. I ask for active cooperation in establishing a thorough disease control system and fulfilling responsibilities in each city and county."

Meanwhile, Jeonbuk Province plans to continue minimizing disease control gaps through close cooperation among cities and counties, and will make every effort to prevent damage to residents and livestock farms.