New Zealand study analyzing bird flu spread
July 3rd, 2006
A study to take place in two North Island areas in New Zealand will survey backyard poultry, mainly hens, ducks, geese and turkeys, as well as their owners, in an attempt to see whether or not these flocks can become infected with bird flu from wild bird populations, under local conditions. The National Center for Biosecurity and Infectious Disease is responsible for the study, which hopes to prevent the appearance of the disease in a country not yet affected by the deadly H5N1 virus. The study will last for two years and initially 10 properties in each area will be under close supervision, with the figure later expanded to 50 farms in total.