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Japan Lifts 10‑Kilometer Wild‑Bird Flu Watch Zones After Tests Rule Out High‑Pathogenic Strains

Officials now focus on targeted monitoring, citing low risk from ordinary contact with wild birds.

Overview

  • Follow‑up genetic analysis by the National Institute for Environmental Studies confirmed influenza A in wild duck samples but found no high‑pathogenicity avian influenza on November 28.
  • The Environment Ministry’s temporary surveillance designations within a 10‑kilometer radius of the detection sites were lifted on November 28 under national protocols.
  • Initial real‑time RT‑PCR testing detected the influenza A M gene on November 26 with H5 negative, and next‑generation sequencing and Sanger methods later determined the absence of HPAI.
  • The Tokyo Metropolitan Government said it will continue wild‑bird surveillance and information gathering given nationwide developments.
  • Okinawa officials reported a migratory teal found on November 20 tested influenza A positive on November 21, with subsequent testing confirming no H5 or H7 high‑pathogenic viruses and the local designation lifted.