Contagious bird infection detected in poultry flock in Latvia

RIGA, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- An outbreak of a highly contagious bird infection has hit a flock of 35 chickens at a backyard poultry holding in the western Latvian municipality of Talsi, the country's Food and Veterinary Service said on Thursday.

Latvia had previously reported no cases of Newcastle disease in domestic birds, though laboratory tests showed the virus has been circulating in wild bird populations.

All the birds and eggs at the affected holding will be destroyed, with disease control measures implemented to prevent further spread.

Protection and monitoring zones have been established within a three- to ten-kilometer radius around the holding, and the transportation of live poultry and poultry products is prohibited in these areas.

Poultry must be vaccinated to protect against the disease. Vaccination is compulsory at all registered poultry farms involved in food production, while optional but strongly recommended for backyard flocks. Enditem