Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Enugu State Government has alerted the residents of the State and relevant stakeholders about an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as “bird flu,” which has been reported in Kano State.
According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, the outbreak had affected various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowl, and turkeys.
Ubru said that, given the disease’s epidemiology and the current environmental conditions in Nigeria, there was a significant risk of the disease spreading to neighboring states and beyond if adequate preventive measures are not taken.
“To mitigate this risk and safeguard the poultry industry as well as public health in Enugu State, the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation has directed its Veterinary personnel to increase the implementation preventive measures across the state.”
He said that the ministry was intensifying efforts to educate the poultry farmers, traders, and the general public on the risks associated with HPAI and the necessary prevention strategies.
He said: “Surveillance and Monitoring: Surveillance teams have been deployed to closely monitor poultry farms and markets for any signs of HPAI.
“We urge all residents to promptly report any unusual bird deaths or symptoms indicative of HPAI to the contacts below or any other Veterinary personnel available.
“It is the responsibility of the stakeholders to maintain strict biosecurity measures and report any suspicion.”
Ubru maintained that the Enugu State Government was committed to ensuring the safety of its residents and the sustainability of the poultry sector. “Cooperation from all stakeholders is essential to prevent the spread of HPAI and protect both human and animal health,” the Commissioner said.
