PandemicPreparedness

24 August: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has updated that highly pathogenic avian influenza was confirmed via testing in 9 cats between the two shelters in Yongsan-gu and Gwanak-gu between 25 July and 3 August. Since the first case was detected, MAFRA has completed comprehensive testing of susceptible animal breeding facilities in quarantine areas, as well as other animal protection facilities nationwide, wild birds, and stray cats. All inspections and testing revealed no more positive samples or other abnormalities. As it has now been three weeks since the last case without further detections, the restrictions of the quarantine zone have been lifted.

Additionally, regarding the previously recalled cat food, MAFRA concluded its monitoring of potentially exposed cats (whose owners purchased the product), and no new cases were found. Subsequent inspections of products from 13 other animal feed companies revealed no bird flu. MAFRA has now developed a management plan for bird flu in pets in the country, and has strengthened safety and surveillance measures, in order to prevent outbreaks in the future.

2 August: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has confirmed the presence of H5 avian flu in cat food from the animal shelter in Gwanak-gu, Seoul. Further testing is ongoing. Investigations into the manufacturer revealed issues with the sterilization process, and local authorities issued an order to recall and discard the affected products. Additionally, MAFRA is planning to conduct thorough inspections into the compliance of pet food manufacturers that use chicken and duck meat, as well as their suppliers, and implement control measures accordingly.

1 August: Media sources are reporting that the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has detected H5 antigens in cat food samples collected from one of the affected animal shelters. While there is not yet any official confirmation from MAFRA, the manufacturer has issued a recall notice for the products in question.

29 July: Another cat at an animal shelter in Gwanak-gu, southern Seoul, has been confirmed to have H5 avian flu. The animal died. Authorities have implemented measures to monitor for infection in people who had contact with the cat. So far no one has developed symptoms. One person who was exposed to the infected cats in Yongsan-gu is still being monitored and remains asymptomatic.

25 July: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed two cases of H5N1 bird flu in domestic cats at a shelter in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. After presenting with respiratory symptoms, both cats were tested and confirmed to be positive on 25 July. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has initiated investigations into further testing and monitoring, with no further contacts currently showing symptoms. Surveillance and inspection of animal breeding centres and shelters locally and nationally is planned.