Preventive Responses to Human Avian Influenza Infection in the Republic of Korea, 2023-2024

초록

Human infections with avian influenza (AI) have been reported in multiple countries; however, no cases have been identified to date in the Republic of Korea. To prevent human AI infection, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) summarized response outcomes from domestic AI outbreaks during the 2023-2024 season to provide a foundation for more effective preparedness and response policies. Before the 2023-2024 AI season, KDCA revised response guidelines and strengthened the capacity of local AI response personnel. In addition, the Central AI Human Infection Response Task Force was established to prepare for potential domestic AI outbreaks. During the 2023-2024 season, surveillance identified a total of 31 cases of highly pathogenic AI in poultry and 19 cases in wild birds. A total of 3,986 individuals, including culling workers, farm workers, and AI response personnel, were classified as high-risk groups for human infection. These individuals underwent 10 days of active surveillance, and no suspected or symptomatic cases requiring further investigation were identified. The risk of human AI infection continues to increase due to the emergence of new viral subtypes and confirmed AI infections in mammals. In response, KDCA will continue to strengthen collaboration with relevant agencies and enhance surveillance systems to support comprehensive disease control measures and ensure the continuous improvement of the national response framework. Copyright © Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

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