Following the discovery of confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) otherwise known as “Bird Flu” in seven States across Nigeria, the general public are hereby advised to take note of the following information and proactive preventive measures:
What Is Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)? Avian Influenza (also called AI, Bird Flu, Fowl Plague) is a disease caused by a virus which has multiple strains or types, some of which are more dangerous than others.
It is divided into three types: A, B and C.
Signs to look out for in birds: Avian influenza is categorized as mild or highly pathogenic.
A. The mild form produces listlessness, loss of appetite, respiratory distress, diarrhea, transient drops in egg production, and low mortality.
B. The highly pathogenic form produces facial swelling, blue comb and wattles, and dehydration with respiratory distress. Dark red/white spots develop in the legs and combs of chickens. There can be blood-tinged discharge from the nostrils.
Mortality can range from low to near 100 percent. Sudden exertion adds to the total mortality. Egg production and hatchability decreases. There can be an increase in production of soft-shelled and shell-less eggs.
What should be done when an outbreak occurs and precautions to be taken?
i. Imposing movement restrictions (Live Birds and equipment)
ii. Culling (depopulation) of infected birds and those in contact .
iii. Biosecurity measures must immediately be put in place in all poultry facilities.
iv. Surveillance must be increased.
v. Report sick or dead birds to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
vi. Keep all birds separate from human living areas.
vii. Keep wild birds away from poultry and keep different types of birds apart. Screens, fencing or nets can be used to separate species and help prevent transmission.
viii. Wash your hands often to kill and remove the virus. You should always do so after handling birds, cooking or preparing poultry products, and before eating.
ix. Eat well-cooked poultry products only.
x. Do not eat sick or dead chickens and do not give or sell them to others.
xi. Seek immediate treatment from your Doctor if you have fever and respiratory signs after being in contact with sick or dead poultry.
This important information is from the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin (UniIlorin)
For further information and any services please contact the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, UNILORIN or www.unilorin.edu.ng
Stay SAFE!!!
CampusPortalNG Team
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