Bird Flu: Six Farms Has Been Confirmed Positive Of The Disease In Plateau State.

The Plateau state Government has announced a fresh outbreak of Avian Influenza, generally referred to as bird flu.

The announcement as contained in a statement signed by the state Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Doris Bitrus, and made available to newsmen in Jos on Friday, revealed that the flu had so far affected six farms.

Bitrus said the fresh cases of bird flu were reported to the Ministry of Health on January 8, adding that the government had taken proactive measures to contain and control the disease, so as to arrest its spread to other farms.

“Six farms have been confirmed positive of the disease; the farms host a total of 10,000 birds,” the statement said.

The statement advised Plateau residents to remain calm and report any disease suspected to be avian influenza to the control project office of the Veterinary Hospital, Jos.

“Poultry farmers and live bird marketers are advised to step up bio-safety and hygienic measures within and around their farms and markets,” the statement added.

The government also advised members of the public to avoid the sale, slaughter and consumption of sick birds, adding that chicken products should be properly cooked before consumption.