July 26, 2005

Russia hit by more bird flu outbreaks
 

The Russian government reported more bird flu outbreaks in Dovolnoe, Kupino and Chistozernoe districts of Novosibirsk county, following the previous week's outbreak in Suzdalka district. 

Final laboratory confirmation of the virus was expected from federal animal health centers by early August.

The Russian government added that a total of 1,100 poultry have died since the epidemic started the previous week.

Meanwhile, local authorities in Novosibirsk and neighbouring counties have taken precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease, according to the government.

Also, Kazakhstan's government has been informed as the affected districts lay close to the Kazakh border.