Emergence of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza in Democratic People's Republic of Korea

In the past decade, there has been extensive global surveillance for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) infection in both animals and humans, however, few studies on epidemiology of avian influenza in Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) were published. During the period 2013-2014, HPAI H5N1 viruses were detected with outbreaks in domestic poultry in DPRK. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the hemagglutinin gene of all samples belonged to Glade 2.3.2.1c with high homology. The HPAI H5N1 virus found in ducks at the Tudan Duck Farm in 2013 was might introduced by migratory birds and then led to the outbreaks on neighboring chicken farms in 2014. These data provide direct evidence for the transmission of avian influenza viruses from wild birds to waterfowl to terrestrial birds. Therefore, the monitoring and control of influenza virus in ducks must be given top priority, which are essential components to prevent and control HPAI.