South Korea Bird Flu Quarantine 2026: Emergency Triggered by Triple Strain Outbreak

A virus 10 times more infectious than previous strains is sweeping through poultry farms as South Korea faces a historic triple threat of avian influenza. The government is launching intensive measures this month to prevent a nationwide collapse of the poultry supply chain.

South Korea Bird Flu Quarantine 2026: Facing a Triple Threat

According to the Central Disaster Management Headquarters (CDMH), 32 cases of highly contagious avian influenza (AI) have been confirmed at poultry farms since the start of the cold season. Another 22 cases were detected among wild birds. The situation escalated on January 5, 2026, with a new case confirmed in Iksan, North Jeolla Province, prompting local authorities to freeze movement and start epidemiological investigations.

First-Time Triple Strain Co-occurrence

This winter marks a dangerous milestone in the country's public health history. For the first time, three different strains—H5N1, H5N6, and H5N9—are spreading simultaneously. CDMH officials warned that the H5N1 strain currently circulating is at least 10 times more infectious than those seen in previous years, significantly increasing the risk of farm-to-farm transmission.

Massive Inspection of 539 Layer Farms

To combat the spread, authorities are deploying quarantine officials to 539 farms that house more than 50,000 hens each. Over the next two weeks, these farms will undergo intensive inspections. In addition, disinfection efforts will be ramped up near migratory bird habitats, and random checks on farming vehicles will be implemented to ensure compliance with strict biosecurity protocols.