Korea reports 3 new bird flu cases at poultry farms

Trucks spray disinfectant in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, Monday, amid concerns over the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Yonhap

Korea reported new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza at three poultry farms Wednesday, bringing the total number of cases this season to 21.

The cases were found at a chicken farm in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province, a duck farm in Gochang, Norht Jeolla Province, and another duck farm in Naju, South Jeolla Province, according to the Central Disaster Management Headquarters.

Authorities have restricted entry to the farms, and begun culling animals and investigating the outbreaks.

They have also ordered a temporary standstill order on farms and farming vehicles in the affected areas.

Inspections will take place at duck farms affiliated with the two affected duck farms as well as all duck farms in North Jeolla Province.

Agriculture ministry officials will also be dispatched to Anseong and Cheonan, South Chungcheon Province, where there is a high possibility of additional cases.