13 May 2010
An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) of the type H5N1 was found in poultry (broiler breeder farm) in Tul Karem (Bal'a). Several people were also hospitalized. The diagnosis was made by the Israeli Veterinary Institute. At the beginning of the week, several chicken farms in the village of Bal'a were quarantined due to a suspected outbreak of salmonella. There is no intention to slaughter the birds in the affected farm and sorrounding area. At least 40% of the town's economy is in chickens.
Last week, the highly pathogenic avian influenza was discovered in the small children's zoo of Kibbutz Ein Gedi, where all avians were destroyed by the inspectors of the Israeli Services to prevent the spread of the epidemic.