H5N1 avian influenza has been diagnosed in a breeding duck flock in Moshav Sde Yaakov in the Jezreel Valley Regional Council. Following abnormal mortality of ducks on a farm that includes approximately 2,000 ducks aged 41 weeks, samples were sent to the laboratories of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, which confirmed the suspicion. This is the first case of avian influenza diagnosed in the current season (2025-2026) in commercial poultry farms, while in the previous influenza season (2024-2025), the Ministry dealt with 16 foci of avian influenza infection.
In order to prevent the spread of the disease, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is acting in accordance with the procedures recommended by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) regarding the treatment of avian influenza. Among other things, a quarantine zone has been established within a 10 km radius of the infected farms, where poultry movements are restricted, the stocking of farms is prohibited, and strict biosecurity measures are required from those involved in the industry. The Veterinary Services at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development continue to conduct active monitoring in all farms in the area.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development calls on ornamental bird and backyard poultry breeders, as well as free-range farms, to keep the poultry in their possession indoors, to prevent roaming in open areas, and thus reduce the risk of infection from wild birds during the migration season.
During last year’s influenza season (2024-2025), the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development dealt with 16 foci of avian influenza infection in commercial poultry farms. In Moshav Nahalal, four foci were identified, in Kibbutz Tzora three foci, in Ein Tzevi two foci, and in Kfar Vitkin two foci. In addition, one focus was identified in the previous season in each of the following communities: Moshav Ram-On, Kibbutz Alonim, emek hefer, Kibbutz Mishmar HaEmek, and Chavate Zion.
The Ministry emphasizes that meat, poultry, and eggs should be consumed only from authorized points of sale and marketing. Eggs must be marked and packaged in cardboard or plastic on all sides. In addition, eggs and chicken meat should only be consumed after being thoroughly cooked, baked, or fried to prevent health risks.