Deborah Akinyosoye
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, popularly known as ‘Avian Flu,’ has been discovered in Kano State, according to the Federal Government.
Bird flu is a disease that affects various bird species, especially avian animals, including ducks, guinea fowls, and turkeys.
Dr. Taiwo Olasoju, a veterinary expert, in a circular, raised concerns about the threats posed by the disease, particularly regarding the consumption of poultry from diseased birds.
The outbreak of the disease has sparked concerns about its potential spread in Nigeria’s northern region.
A circular issued by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Columba Teru Vakuru, stressed the increased risk of transmission of the bird flu disease.
“We urge all state veterinary offices and relevant agencies to activate their surveillance systems immediately.
Strict biosecurity measures must be implemented, and public awareness campaigns intensified to curb the spread of the virus,” the circular stated.
In the late 2000s, a previous outbreak of bird flu was severe, costing poultry owners hundreds of millions of naira due to the loss of their birds to the disease.
