The sixth and seventh farms in Kagawa Prefecture confirmed to have been infected with an H5 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus have undergone depletion.  Collectively the two units housed 850,000 birds.  The farms, which are in close proximity, are adjacent to Mitoyo City.  Authorities previously advised farmers to report any indication of elevated mortality resulting in the diagnoses.

As reported previously in EGG-NEWS, Kagawa Prefecture is at seasonal risk for avian influenza as it is located on a major flyway with wetlands that attract migratory waterfowl serving as reservoirs of avian influenza.

Previous outbreaks of avian influenza occurred in the Prefecture during the winter of 2018.