In the Gwangju region of South Jeolla Province, 11 cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) were reported last winter across five cities and counties. In anticipation of the upcoming migratory bird season, health authorities are initiating special biosecurity measures.
The Gwangju Integrated Special City announced that from October to February, it will implement a special biosecurity plan focusing on farms, livestock vehicles, and migratory bird sites.
During the previous winter season of 2025-2026, a total of 62 cases of highly pathogenic AI were reported across nine provinces, with Gwangju accounting for 11 of those cases.
To enhance biosecurity, the Integrated Special City will activate a 24-hour emergency response center and maintain 23 disinfection facilities.
Measures will also be taken to prevent the introduction of the virus through migratory birds. Access for livestock vehicles will be restricted at 39 locations across 20 major migratory bird sites, and 135 disinfection vehicles from local governments and agricultural cooperatives will be deployed to disinfect roads around these sites and access routes to poultry farms.
Farm-level biosecurity will be strengthened as well. A total of 589 dedicated officials will be assigned to monitor compliance with biosecurity protocols and provide ongoing guidance to farmers.
Particularly in areas with a higher risk of outbreaks, restrictions on duck farming will be implemented from November to February to reduce the potential for virus introduction during peak risk periods.
Prior to the implementation of these special measures, a pre-inspection was conducted. The Integrated Special City provided biosecurity training to 520 individuals, including poultry farmers and industry representatives, and assessed the biosecurity practices at 1,015 poultry farms. Any deficiencies identified during the inspections have been addressed.
Support for enhancing farm-level biosecurity capabilities will also be provided, with 1.1 billion won allocated for the installation of five types of disinfection and biosecurity facilities.
Lee Young-nam, head of the Animal Health Division of Gwangju Integrated Special City, emphasized, "Farm-level biosecurity is crucial for preventing highly pathogenic AI. We urge farm owners and all personnel to strictly adhere to key biosecurity protocols, including thorough disinfection of all vehicles and individuals entering the farms."
Meanwhile, during the special biosecurity period, the Integrated Special City plans to continue controlling access to migratory bird sites, operating disinfection facilities, and monitoring farms with dedicated officials, along with implementing restrictions on duck farming in high-risk areas until February.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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