H5N1 outbreak confirmed in France
Sequencing of the strain is now underway (stock photo).
A case of the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian influenza has been confirmed in France for the first time since 2007.
The outbreak involved a backyard flock of 32 hens in Dordogne, south-west France, according to a statement from the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
Symptoms first appeared on 14 November and the strain of the disease was confirmed this week by the National Agency Risk Assessment (Anses).
Sequencing of the strain is now underway but a statement from the French ministry of agriculture says it appears to be a strain already detected in Europe.
The country has activated its health emergency response plan, in line with European and international rules.
This includes a protection zone of 3km and a surveillance zone of 10km around the premises. Monitoring of farming and wildlife will also be strengthened.
All of the 22 infected birds died and the remaining 10 susceptible birds were destroyed.
Agriculture minister Stephane Le Foll also asked the country's director general to convene an emergency national guidance committee of animal health policy this week to mobilise stakeholders and ensure appropriate measures for protection and management are put in place.
Members of the public have been reminded that avian influenza is not transmitted to humans via meat, eggs and other food products.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
