On April 9, 2025, South Korea’s Central Accident Management Headquarters for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (AI) confirmed an H5N1 outbreak at a meat duck farm in Nonsan, Chungcheongnam-do. The farm, housing approximately 26,000 ducks, was identified during pre-shipment surveillance. This marks the 62nd AI case in domestic poultry farms since September of the previous year. The government convened an emergency meeting with relevant agencies and local governments to assess the situation and reinforce containment strategies.
The outbreak impacts poultry farmers, related industries, and local communities in Chungcheongnam-do and adjacent regions. Immediate actions include culling affected flocks, restricting movement of poultry and vehicles, and conducting thorough inspections within a 10 km radius of the outbreak. A 24-hour standstill order was issued for all duck farms and related facilities in Nonsan and neighboring Jeollabuk-do cities, affecting operations and logistics. Enhanced disinfection protocols are being enforced at migratory bird habitats, small streams, reservoirs, and farm access roads.
From April 9, 2025, authorities deployed rapid response teams to the affected farm, enforcing entry controls and initiating epidemiological investigations. Intensive inspections and biosecurity checks are scheduled from April 10 to April 24 for all contract duck farms and high-risk sites. The government also designated a nationwide disinfection week until April 15, urging all poultry farms and facilities to participate. Regular communication and guidance are being provided to farmers to ensure compliance with updated biosecurity measures.
Frequently asked questions include whether the outbreak is limited to ducks or affects other poultry, and what steps are being taken to prevent further spread. The outbreak involves multiple poultry types, with 40 cases in chickens, 18 in ducks, and 4 in other birds since September. Authorities are conducting one-on-one supervision of farms within the affected area, enforcing strict vehicle registration and disinfection, and intensifying public awareness campaigns. Farmers are advised to follow all movement restrictions, enhance cleaning of equipment, and report any suspicious symptoms immediately.
Metaqsol opinion: The South Korean government’s swift and comprehensive response to the Nonsan H5N1 outbreak highlights the effectiveness of coordinated animal health policy. By combining immediate containment, targeted inspections, and nationwide disinfection efforts, authorities are addressing both local and systemic risks. The emphasis on communication and compliance among farmers is crucial for long-term disease control. Continued vigilance and adherence to biosecurity measures will be necessary to prevent further outbreaks, especially during periods of increased migratory bird activity.