Avian Influenza Outbreak: Japan kills 10 million birds to stop bird flu spread

Japan has slaughtered almost 10 million (1 crore) birds in view of outbreak of avian influenza, which has already devastated poultry flocks worldwide, Bloomberg reported.

Japan's agriculture ministry confirmed that a total of 9.98 million birds have been culled this season. The mass slaughtering of birds has surpassed previous record in the year 2020.

The Japanese Government took the step amid an unprecedented bird flu epidemic in the world that has impacted the products made from eggs.

Last week, Japan confirmed that the dreadful bird flu spread at an egg farm in Miyazaki prefecture that housed about 100,000 hens.

Notably, the avian flu spreads spread to at least 23 of Japan’s 47 prefectures this season.

What is Avian influenza?

Avian influenza refers to the disease caused by infection with bird flu Type A Viruses. The virus that causes the flu naturally spreads among wild aquatic birds globally and can infect birds (including poultry birds) and animals.

And How it infects birds?

Avian flu season starts every October after migratory birds shed infected droppings or saliva, due to which other birds get infected.

Does the virus infect humans?

No, the bird flu viruses do not typically infect humans, although some rare cases can occur.

Europe is also dealing with its biggest bird flu outbreak ever. A Czech Republic farm instructed to cull 7,50,000 hens which is 15 percent of the country's total. The farm is located in Brod nad Tichou.

According to Czech Republic’s veterinary administration, SVS, the situation is very critical as ten new outbreaks were announced in the country in December only. The SVS also said that the bird flu is spreading like wild fire in the country.