Date of previous outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza in Denmark reported to the OIE: 2 June 2006).

Information received on 6 July 2006 from Dr Preben Willeberg, Chief Veterinary Officer, Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, S鴅org:

Report date: 6 July 2006.

Identification of agent: low pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5*.

Date of first confirmation of the event: 5 July 2006.

Date of start of the event: 5 July 2006.

An outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5 has been reported in a hatchery for farmed game birds (mallards and pheasants), ducks, geese and different species of ornamental birds at Loevel in Viborg county. There are approximately 25,000 birds. The total number of cases and of animals destroyed is not yet available.

Ducklings were tested in accordance with the Danish surveillance programme for avian influenza in poultry.

The diagnosis has been made by the Danish Institute for Food and Veterinary Research using PCR(1) test and sequence analysis.

The control measures undertaken are:

- quarantine;

- movement control inside the country;

- zoning.

Other measures to be undertaken are:

- stamping out;

- disinfection of the infected establishment.

The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has set up a 1 km-radius restricted zone around the holding and is implementing the necessary measures in accordance with Council directive 2005/94/EC.

* Note by the OIE Animal Health Information Department: H5 and H7 avian influenza in its low pathogenic form in poultry is a notifiable disease as per Chapter 2.7.12. on avian influenza of the Terrestrial Animal Health Code: http://www.oie.int/eng/normes/mcode/en_chapitre_2.7.12.htm

(1) PCR: polymerase chain reaction