SAN AGUSTIN, PILI, CAMARINES SUR – The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 5 (DA RFO-5) instituted rapid response and control measures after the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) confirmed a positive incidence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N2 in backyard ducks in Talisay, Camarines Norte. The blood samples were collected as part of routine surveillance being conducted by the DA Bicol Regulatory Division.
This is the first recorded incidence of H5N2 in the Bicol Region.
DA Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel P. Tornilla immediately activated the DA Bicol Command Center and implemented rapid response and control measures through its Regional Quick Response Team for Animal Disease & Emergencies (RQRT-ADE) upon confirmation of the Avian Influenza case.
Disease control measures include: Immediate culling of the affected ducks in Talisay and Vinzons, Camarines Norte to contain the spread of the virus. Active surveillance and monitoring within 1-km radius of the affected areas to identify any further cases. Restriction in movement within the quarantine zone to prevent the transport of potentially infected poultry was also put in place.
The DA RFO-5 is working closely with the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Camarines Norte, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), Department of Health (DOH) and municipal agriculture offices to implement a coordinated response. Proper indemnification will also be provided to the affected farmers.
One does not get bird flu from thoroughly cooked chicken meat. No evidence of transmission of the virus to humans from raw, chilled or frozen poultry foods. Still, look for the Meat Inspection Certificate issued by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) Meat Inspection Officers and Deputized Meat Inspection Officers when buying chicken meat.
Poultry owners are advised to strengthen biosecurity measures on their farms to protect their flocks. Practice proper hand hygiene. Cook poultry thoroughly. Report any unusual sickness or deaths in birds to your Municipal Agriculture Offices or Provincial Veterinary Office.
DA RFO-5 assures the public that it is committed to controlling this Avian Influenza incidence and urge the public to help prevent further spread of the virus by observing biosecurity measures. We will continue to provide updates and information to the public as the situation develops. (LOVELLA P. GUARIN RAFIS 5]