August 14, 2014

New strain of bird flu detected in Vietnam

A new strain of bird flu, H5N6, has been detected in the provinces of Lang Son and Ha Tinh of Vietnam, potentially affecting 1,980 birds, the World Organisation for Animal Health reports.

The date of the start of the outbreaks was reported to be on April 22, with outbreaks reported in Lang Son (Keo Quang, Chi Lang, Trang Dinh) and Ha Tinh (Tan Son, Ky Tho, Ky Anh). 990 cases were identified in birds, resulting in 1,980 birds becoming susceptible, with 15 deaths and 1,965 birds being destroyed. The source of the outbreaks was unknown.

The initial result for the new strain was positive for H5 but negative for N1. Therefore further testing was needed and the final result (N6 positive) was only available in July 2014.

Control measures, amongst others, included the control of wildlife reservoirs, movement control inside the country and disinfection of infected premises.