The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has warned the public about the outbreak of a highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, recently reported in Kano State.
“While there are no confirmed cases in Kwara State, proactive measures are necessary to prevent its occurrence and safeguard our poultry industry and public health,” a statement in Ilorin by the ministry’s spokesperson Omotola Ashaolu, stated.
According to the statement: “HPAI, a highly contagious disease, causes severe poultry mortality and poses a potential risk to human health.
“To ensure Kwara State remains free from this threat, all residents, particularly poultry farmers, bird handlers, and agricultural stakeholders, are urged to adopt among other preventive measures,
strengthen biosecurity measures, and restrict access to poultry farms.”
Other measures include disinfecting equipment, tools, and facilities regularly, preventing wild birds from interacting with domestic poultry and prompt reporting of suspected cases.
The ministry also advised the public to watch for sudden bird deaths, respiratory distress, or a significant drop in egg production and report any unusual cases to the veterinary services department or relevant authorities for investigation and containment.
The statement also urged the use of protective equipment by ensuring proper use of gloves, masks, and other protective gears when handling poultry as well as avoiding direct contact with sick or dead birds.
On suspicion of cases or seeking advice, the ministry directed the public to contact Dr. Olugbon Abdulateef, its Director of Veterinary Services (08033765024) or
Chief Veterinary Officer, Vet. Public Health and Epidemiology,
Dr. Aminu I.O. (08160989312).
The ministry further urged strict compliance with the guidelines to protect Kwara state from the threat adding that “by working together, we can prevent an outbreak and ensure a healthy and secure future for our communities.”
