More avian flu cases confirmed in France
Sampling at farms in Dordogne revealed highly pathogenic avian influenza strains at two farms.
Two further cases of avian influenza have been detected in south-west France, the ministry for agriculture has confirmed.
The first outbreak of the H5N1 strain was reported on 24 November. It was the country's first case since 2007 and involved a backyard flock of 32 hens in Dordogne.
France immediately activated its national health emergency response plan. Protection and surveillance zones were established around the barnyard and samples were taken from other farms in Dordogne, despite there being no clinical signs or mortalities.
The results of these samples revealed highly pathogenic avian influenza strains at two farms. Detailed sequencing is now being carried out by the National Agency Risk Assessment (Anses).
According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), three goslings were found dead at a goose and duck farm in Domme. Three more goslings were culled for analysis and one sample tested positive for H2N2. In total, 1,337 susceptible birds have been culled.
A 3km and 10km zoning around the outbreak has been established.
According to Farmers Weekly, the other affected location is a duck farm in Saint-Paul-la-Roche.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
