Kyoto Confirms Suspected Avian Flu Case; MAFF to Convene Response Headquarters

On November 12, 2026, MAFF announced that a suspected case of highly pathogenic avian influenza had been confirmed at a laying-hen farm in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture. After the prefecture received a report of unusual poultry conditions from the farmer, it conducted an on-site inspection and tests; genetic testing confirmed the case. In response, MAFF will convene its Avian Influenza Response Headquarters to confirm its next steps.

This is the first confirmed case in Japan this season. The farm has voluntarily restricted the movement of poultry and other items since the farmer reported the situation.

MAFF explained that under current conditions in Japan, people are not considered at risk of contracting avian influenza by eating chicken or eggs.

MAFF requested that people strictly refrain from on-site reporting, saying it could contribute to disease spread or invade farmers’ privacy, and that reporting by helicopter or drone could hinder biosecurity work. It also urged producers, other stakeholders, and consumers to avoid confusion caused by unfounded rumors.

The affected farm is in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture, and keeps about 200,000 laying hens.

On November 11, 2026, Kyoto Prefecture received a report from a farmer in Kameoka about unusual conditions among the poultry and inspected the farm. A preliminary test was positive that day. Genetic testing at 8:30 a.m. the following day, November 12, confirmed a suspected case of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Under the relevant prevention guidelines, the poultry at the farm will be culled and incinerated or buried. A movement restriction zone will be set within a 3 km radius of the farm, and a shipment restriction zone from 3 km to within 10 km. Farms in the movement restriction zone will undergo inspections to check for the disease. Disinfection will be strengthened around the affected farm, and disinfection points will be set up on major roads.

MAFF will work closely with Kyoto Prefecture and, as needed, obtain technical advice from the Poultry Disease Subcommittee and dispatch experts from MAFF and other organizations to the site. It will encourage the use of private businesses to support the prefecture’s disease control measures and, as needed, dispatch emergency support teams from the Animal Quarantine Service and the National Livestock Breeding Center. An epidemiological investigation team will also be dispatched.

MAFF will issue a renewed alert to all prefectures and instruct them to ensure early detection, prompt reporting, and thorough livestock hygiene management. In coordination with relevant government ministries and agencies, it will provide accurate information to producers, consumers, distributors, and others.

The response headquarters meeting will be held in MAFF’s First Special Conference Room at 1-2-1 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.