On January 20, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) case was confirmed at a meat duck farm in Gokseong, Jeollanam-do, where approximately 27,000 ducks were raised. This marks the 37th case of HPAI in the 2025/26 winter season and the first occurrence in Gokseong, following previous outbreaks in Naju and Yeongam within Jeollanam-do. The infection was detected during routine surveillance, with further testing confirming the H5N1 strain. The government responded promptly by intensifying biosecurity measures to prevent further spread.
Nationwide, there have been 37 HPAI cases in poultry farms this season, with Jeollanam-do reporting 8 cases—5 in Naju, 2 in Yeongam, and 1 in Gokseong. Additionally, 28 cases have been detected in wild birds, raising concerns about widespread transmission. The Central Accident Management Headquarters (CAMH), led by Song Mi-ryeong, convened an emergency meeting with relevant agencies and local governments to discuss containment strategies. Immediate actions included culling affected flocks, conducting epidemiological investigations, and issuing a 24-hour standstill order for nearby areas and related facilities.
CAMH assigned dedicated supervisors to 21 poultry farms within the 10km control zone for special management and initiated thorough inspections and biosecurity checks at 60 affiliated duck farms. All available disinfection resources were deployed to migratory bird habitats, streams, reservoirs, and farm access roads nationwide. Intensive inspections and special monitoring were also carried out at breeder duck farms and hatcheries, especially those with a history of previous outbreaks. Officials emphasized strict adherence to movement controls, disinfection, and testing protocols.
The government designated a nationwide intensive disinfection period until January 31 and issued an AI risk advisory through January 28 to address potential risks from heavy snow and cold waves. Poultry farmers were urged to enforce entry restrictions, prevent disinfection facility freezing, and follow winter biosecurity guidelines. This outbreak highlights the critical importance of robust biosecurity during winter and underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and rapid response to prevent further spread. The effectiveness of these measures will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
The Gokseong HPAI outbreak underscores the heightened risk of inter-regional transmission and the necessity for agile, data-driven biosecurity strategies. Assigning dedicated supervisors and conducting targeted inspections can significantly curb the spread if implemented effectively. Integrating AI and big data analytics for real-time surveillance, movement tracking, and risk prediction will be pivotal in safeguarding the poultry industry and public health against future outbreaks.