TOKYO- Japan is experiencing a surge of avian influenza outbreak, with approximately five million chickens and other birds culled across five prefectures this month.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has confirmed the new outbreaks at two poultry farms in Morioka City this week.
This has prompted the establishment of an on-site response headquarters in Iwate Prefecture.
In total, 26 outbreak sites have been identified this month, with nearly five million birds impacted.
The ministry warned that the outbreaks could show no signs of slowing and the situation may worsen, potentially breaking past records.
The ministry also noted the impact on egg prices, reporting a 15per cent increase since the start of the year.
Some industry observers have raised concerns about potential supply shortages as the effects of avian influenza begin to take hold. (Xinhua/NAN)
