The Avian Influenza Subtype A(H5N1) from Pampanga City is non-pathogenic or incapable of causing disease if contracted by humans, Department of Agriculture Veterinarian and Coordinator for Avian Flu Dannie Apelo assured a round table discussion at SM Ecoland on Tuesday.
However, Apelo strongly reminded the general public not be complacent towards the issue, as this A(H5N1) infection from livestock and poultry produce can still mutate inside the body and can possibly come out as pathogenic or a deadly disease.
Apelo said that once the collection of samples from poultry and livestock farms begin, farm owners, employees or any individual who steps foot on farms and will test positive for Avian or Bird flu will be quarantined for 72 hours up to 5 days in care of the Department of Health.
Apelo reminds the public about six easy steps dubbed as “BIRDIE” to control and prevent Avian Influenza or Bird Flu:
- Biosecurity and Disinfection: Intense cleaning and disinfecting zones should be established;
- Isolation and Quarantine: Birds, exposed and other Animals;
- Reporting and Surveillance: Report to the nearest agricultural or veterinary office any unusual death or illness of chickens and other birds;
- Depopulation and Disposal: Dispose allaffected poultry products to prevent he spread of disease;
- Information;
- Education: must be distributed to inform and educate the public on Bird Flu.
Apelo also said that Department of Environment and Natural Resources, is also maintaining its surveillance for wild animals, and caged birds being smuggled through the city’s backdoors as they are highly possible carriers of the avian flu.
All ports will also be closely watched by the Philippine Nation Police and the Philippine Coast Guard for any possible resistance from the existing Memorandum Circular.
Those who are travelling with caged animals, most especially birds, will be strictly required to present a shipping permit which includes the point of origin and veterinarian health certificate upon entering Davao City.
However, failure to do so, will mean non-entry to the city, and in any case of resistance, caged animals will be confiscated, with accordance to the law.
Apelo also announced that tire and foot baths in airports will also be re-established, as this will play a huge role in preventing Avian or Bird Flu from ever entering the City.
