The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has assured residents that no cases of Avian Influenza have been confirmed in the state.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Press Secretary of the Ministry, Omotola Ashaolu, the government highlighted the importance of vigilance following the recent outbreak of highly pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Kano State.
“While there are no confirmed cases in Kwara State, proactive measures are necessary to prevent its occurrence and safeguard our poultry industry and public health,” the statement noted.
The government emphasized that HPAI, a highly infectious disease, poses a dual threat by causing significant mortality in poultry and potentially endangering human health.
To prevent its spread, the ministry urged poultry farmers, bird handlers, and agricultural stakeholders to adopt stringent preventive measures.
As outlined in the statement, these measures include restricting access to poultry farms, minimizing contact between domestic poultry and wild birds, and promptly reporting any suspected cases.
The ministry also emphasized the importance of using protective equipment when handling birds.
Ashaolu encouraged poultry farmers to report any signs of the disease or seek expert advice.
“The ministry urges strict compliance with these guidelines to protect Kwara State from this threat. By working together, we can prevent an outbreak and ensure a healthy and secure future for our communities,” she added.