The Department of Agriculture-Cordillera continues to intensify its efforts to ensure the poultry industry in the region is protected from Avian Influenza (AI) or bird flu.
This is after the reported bird flu cases in Benguet and Kalinga.
DA-Cordillera Director Cameron Odsey said the cases are suspected to have come from chicken and infected chicken dung from other regions.
He added migratory birds are also among the suspected source of the bird flu, although this is yet to be proven.
He said the DA is working closely with the Bureau of Animal Industry to ensure the products being delivered in the region are sourced out from AI-free areas.
Despite the downtrend in AI cases in the country, the DA-Cordillera reminded the public to avoid buying poultry or poultry products from AI-infected areas.
The public was also urged to report any illegal entry of poultry to their areas and to report any unusual death of chicken or poultry to the nearest Municipal Agriculture Office or Provincial Veterinary Office.
In a public advisory recently issued by the DA-Cordillera, the movement within mainland Luzon (Cordillera to Region 4-A) of live birds, hatching eggs, and ready to lay chicken and quails is allowed subject to compliance with existing guidelines.
Movement of ducks, however, is not allowed within mainland Luzon. – Debbie E. Gasingan
April 17, 2024
