Bird flu detected in Camarines Norte duck farm — BAI

The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) on Wednesday reported the detection of bird flu in Talisay, Camarines Norte.

In a statement, the BAI said it “confirms the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Type A Subtype H5N2 in a duck farm located (in) Talisay, Camarines Norte.”

The agency said the positive result was reported on December 6, 2024 by the Animal Disease Diagnosis and Reference Laboratory (ADDRL), following routine surveillance conducted by the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office V (DA-RFO V) in November.

“This is the first detection of HPAI H5N2 in the country and the first recorded avian influenza case in the province,” the BAI said.

Following confirmation, the agency said it promptly endorsed the results to DA-RFO V and recommended the immediate implementation of quarantine and biosecurity measures on the affected farm to prevent the virus from spreading.

“The remaining birds are being culled and disposed of to contain the infection,” the BAI said.

“Culling operations are expected to be completed by December 10, with the 1-km zone surveillance concluding on December 11,” it added.

The BAI said that a thorough investigation is ongoing to trace the movement of birds and identify additional risks.

“The DA RFO-V has activated its Command Center to oversee operations while a coordination meeting was held with the Regional Quick Response Team for Animal Disease and Emergencies (RQRT-ADE) to review protocols in line with the Avian Influenza Protection Program (AIPP),” it said.

“All disease control measures are being coordinated closely with the BAI,” it added.

The BAI said it is committed to protecting the Philippine's poultry industry from the threat of avian influenza and will maintain close cooperation with other government agencies and stakeholders.

“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any unusual poultry deaths or signs of illness to local authorities for immediate action,” it said. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News