An outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has killed 300 birds on a farm in Plateau State. Dr. Shase’et Sipak, the Chief Veterinary Officer of the state, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Jos.
Dr. Sipak confirmed that the outbreak was verified by the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Jos. The affected farm is located in Bassa Local Government Area of the state.
“When we received reports of the suspected outbreak in Bassa, we immediately visited the farm and collected samples, which were later confirmed positive by the NVRI laboratory,” he said.
The outbreak resulted in a 100% morbidity rate, with more than 280 of the 300 birds dying. The remaining birds were depopulated to prevent further spread. The farm has been sealed off, and stringent biosecurity measures have been implemented to contain the disease.
Dr. Sipak urged poultry farmers in the state to adopt strict biosecurity protocols to protect their birds and prevent the spread of the virus.
This incident highlights the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures to curb the spread of avian influenza, which poses significant risks to both poultry and public health.
