1. An avian influenza outbreak has been confirmed at a poultry farm in Hokkaido, Japan, caused by the highly pathogenic H5 strain of bird flu virus.
2. Approximately 459,000 chickens are being culled from the affected farm, which accounts for 8% of all egg-laying chickens in Hokkaido.
3. Movement restrictions have been imposed on neighboring farms and areas within a 10km radius to prevent further spread of the disease, with officials aiming to complete the cull and disinfection process by October 30 and November 2, respectively. A bird flu expert advises increased vigilance nationwide due to the potential for outbreaks anywhere, given migratory birds as possible carriers.