Science and Health

France confirms H1N1 flu outbreak in turkeys

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-01-22 16:22
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PARIS: Turkeys on a local farm in northwestern France were infected with the A(H1N1) flu virus, authorities in Cote d'Armor department announced Thursday.

Laboratory tests have confirmed the virus in turkeys on the farm, and the infected turkeys have been quarantined, authorities said in a statement.

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If no further spread of the virus was spotted, the quarantine would be lifted in seven days, and there was no need for massive slaughter, the statement said, citing relevant guidelines issued by the European Union and the World Health Organization in case of animal A(H1N1) flu infection.

Local health officials warned people with flu symptoms against close contact with any animals.

The A(H1N1) virus has been found in animals including pigs, turkeys, cats, ferrets and dogs in a dozen of countries.

The possibility for animal-to-animal transmission of the virus is very limited with proper preventive measures, said the World Organization for Animal Health.
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