April 18, 2008

South Korea culls 3 million poultry to curb bird flu

The South Korean government announced on Thursday that 3 million poultry have been culled so far to prevent bird flu from spreading.

Seven new suspected bird flu cases were reported to the government, bringing the total number of suspected and confirmed cases to 43 this year, according to the Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Among the 43 cases, 21 have tested positive for bird flu, said the ministry.

The government is under fire as their measures, including road blocks and check points, have been ineffective in preventing farmers and poultry merchants from transporting birds.

Just early this week, a poultry merchant was reported to have brought out 600 poultry from a bird flu affected farm and about 400 of it were sold to 20 restaurants in six cities and districts.