China has joined the list of countries banning poultry and poultry product imports from Manitoba.

The ban is the result of the discovery of low-pathogenic H5N2 avian flu in an RM of Rockwood turkey-breeding operation.

Taiwan and the Phillipines are among the other countries that have also imposed bans.

The virus was discovered in late November after the producer noticed a 45 percent drop in egg production.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has lifted movement restrictions from three farms that were quarantined as part of the investigation. Test results at these farms were negative for the H5N2 virus.

The hatchery associated with the investigation remains under quarantine. The facility is in the process of being cleaned and disinfected.

The infected farm is also under quarantine and in the cleaning and disinfecting process. It will remain under quarantine for 21 days following approval of the cleaning.

~ Thursday, December 16, 2010 ~