Kebbi Govt Sends Additional Specimens to Jos for Bird Flu Testing
By Faridat Salifu
In a proactive move to curb the spread of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, the Kebbi State Government has dispatched supplementary specimens to Jos, Plateau State, for thorough testing.
Dr. Aliyu Muhammad, the Deputy Director of Veterinary Services at the Kebbi State Ministry of Animal Health, Husbandry, and Fisheries, disclosed this initiative on Wednesday.
Dr. Muhammad pointed out a rise in reports concerning the significant mortality rate among local chickens in various backyard farms across the state. Expressing concern over the potential transmission of the disease within backyard poultry populations, he cited a lack of adherence to biosecurity measures among many backyard farmers as a primary challenge.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Dr. Muhammad emphasized the need for farmers to refrain from practices that could exacerbate the spread of the disease. He recounted a distressing incident reported to the ministry, wherein a farmer found their local chickens deceased without any prior signs of illness.
This scenario underscores the critical importance of implementing enhanced biosecurity measures and increasing awareness among poultry farmers to contain the spread of avian influenza.
Collaborative efforts between governmental authorities and veterinary experts are underway to combat the outbreak and protect the poultry industry from further harm.
Amidst the looming threat of bird flu, the Kebbi State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the agricultural sector and ensuring the welfare of livestock across the region.
Through vigilant surveillance and proactive interventions, stakeholders are striving to mitigate the impact of the disease and uphold food security for the populace.