Chile suspends chicken exports after case of avian flu.

The Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) confirmed the first case of avian influenza in laying hens at an industrial farm in Talagante, in the Metropolitan region. Following the detection, sanitary protocols were activated and the country temporarily suspended certification for exports of poultry products.

The case was reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOH), and SAG initiated discussions with importing countries to resume shipments as quickly as possible. The agency reported that the domestic supply of chicken meat and eggs is guaranteed and that consumption poses no health risk.

This occurrence is part of an outbreak already recorded in different regions of the country, with cases in wild and subsistence birds. SAG reinforces the adoption of biosecurity measures and advises that suspected cases of the disease be reported immediately. Insurance for compensation in cases of sanitary culling also remains available.