Writing by ABDULLAHI JALALUDDEEN; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
A bird flu disease has been detected and confirmed in Kano State, with over 32 birds reported dead and several others slaughtered to prevent further spread of the disease.
Speaking to a team of journalist, The Chief Medical Officer of Gwale Veterinary hospital, Dr. Abdullahi Abubakar Gaya,warned residents against buying, eating sick and dead birds, emphasizing that consuming infected birds has severe consequences on human health.
Dr. Gaya said the disease was first reported on December 7, 2024, when a poultry farmer brought in a dead Guinea Fowl purchased at Janguza market.
The infected bird was mixed with other birds at the poultry, leading to the death of over 32 birds.
The Kano State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, confirmed that 35 chickens died in Gwale Local Government Area, but assured residents that the situation is under control.
Dr. Yusuf explained that the bird flu virus was confirmed after a sample was brought to the Gwale Veterinary Clinic for diagnosis.
The state Ministry of Agriculture took proactive measures to contain the spread, sealing the affected area, depopulating the remaining chickens, and decontaminating the compound.
Residents, especially poultry rearers, are urged to report any suspected cases to the authorities for timely action.
Symptoms of bird flu include fever, mucous, and redness of the eyes.
The Commissioner noted that state Ministry of Health has convened meetings with stakeholders, including the Emergency Preparedness Response and One Health committees, to discuss strategies for containment.
“Surveillance will be intensified in every Local Government Area, with daily reports sent to the committees.”
