Avian Flu Outbreak in La Union Kills 20,000 Chickens

The Provincial Veterinary Office of La Union warned poultry raisers  as a disease massively  infects domesticated birds primarily chickens  in the region.

For about 3 weeks on January 2016 over 8 municipalities were greatly affected of  newcastle disease o avian flu that resulted to death of 20,000 chickens, said Bombo Radyo report.

The Provincial veterinarian Dr. Nida Gapuz noted that among the affected  areas are the San Fernando City and municipalities of San Fernando City Bauang, Balaoan, Bangar, Luna, Naguilian, San Juan, and Sudipen.

Gapuz  pointed out that the said virus attacks the respiratory system of domestic poultry and  commercial farm.

The La Union Local Government is now giving vacines  that could protect their animals getting infected from the said disease.

Meanwhile, Gapuz explains that the public should not be wary since Avian Flu usually do not infect humans.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, Avian influenza refers to infection of birds with avian influenza Type A viruses. These viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. Wild aquatic birds can be infected with avian influenza A viruses in their intestines and respiratory tract, but usually do not get sick. However, avian influenza A viruses are very contagious among birds and some of these viruses can sicken and even kill certain domesticated bird species including chickens, ducks, and turkeys.