Avian Flu Outbreak in La Union Kills 20,000 Chickens
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
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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.