April 9, 2024

Philippines reports avian influenza outbreak in central part of the country

The Philippines has confirmed an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, on a poultry farm located in the central part of the country, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), Daily Express reported.

The virus has resulted in the deaths of 4,475 birds out of a flock totalling 60,529 on a farm situated in Leyte province, as reported by WOAH, citing local authorities. The affected farm is positioned amidst rice field paddies and a river frequented by wild waterfowl.

Authorities believe that the virus may have been introduced by free-flying wild birds through their droppings, particularly as the initial affected building was located at the rear of the farm closest to the rice paddies.

Bird flu, which is carried by migrating wild birds and can spread among farms, has caused significant damage to poultry flocks worldwide in recent years, leading to disruptions in the supply chain and subsequent increases in food prices.

In response to outbreaks, the Philippines' Department of Agriculture implemented a temporary ban on poultry imports from several countries, including Japan, Belgium, and France, in January.

-      Daily Express