Results from tests conducted on samples by the National Veterinary Research Institute had revealed that fresh cases of H5 strain of Avian Influenza Virus, also known as bird flu has rocked Lagos and Kano states respectively.
This was made known by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Thursday, January 15, 2015.
Following the viral disease caused by influenza virus, there has been unusual high mortality in two poultry farms and live bird markets in the affected states according to Punch.
Confirmatory samples were sent to the International Reference Laboratory in Padova, Italy, for further characterisation.
The ministry disclosed that they have taken proactive measures to contain further spread of the flu by placing the infected premises on quarantine.
It said, “All state directors of veterinary services and the Federal Capital Territory, Poultry Association of Nigeria and other stakeholders have been informed and advised to be on alert with intensified bio-security measures to avert possible spread of the disease to other states.
“The World Organisation for Animal Health and Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resource and development partners have been appropriately notified in compliance with our statutory international obligations.”
“All stakeholders in the poultry industry are urged to enhance hygienic practices (bio-security measures) which include, but not limited to, regular disinfection, proper disposal of dead carcasses and poultry products and timely reporting of mortalities in poultry and other bird species to veterinary authorities.
“We wish to assure the public that, given our experiences in handling previous outbreaks and with your full cooperation in the implementation of containment measures, we are determined to contain this disease again within a short time. We will keep you informed as events unfold.”
