The Enugu state government says it has intensified its efforts to sensitise poultry farmers, traders, and the general public about the risks associated with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), also known as Bird Flu.

The government said the action was to educate stakeholders who deal directly with birds on the necessary prevention strategies for bird flu.

Mr Patrick Ubru, the state commissioner for agriculture and agro-industrialisation, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Enugu.

According to Mr Ubru, the Enugu state government wishes to alert the general public and relevant stakeholders about an outbreak of bird flu which has been reported in Kano state.

He said the outbreak had affected various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowl, and turkeys.

“Given the disease’s epidemiology and the current environmental conditions in Nigeria, there is a significant risk of the disease spreading to neighbouring states and beyond, if adequate preventive measures are not taken.

“To mitigate this risk and safeguard the poultry industry as well as public health in Enugu State, the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization has directed its Veterinary personnel to increase the implementation of the preventive measures,” he said.

The commissioner added that awareness, surveillance and monitoring teams had been deployed to closely monitor poultry farms and markets for any signs of HPAI.

He urged all residents to promptly report any unusual bird deaths or symptoms indicative of HPAI to the ministry or any other veterinary personnel available.

“It is the responsibility of the stakeholders to maintain strict biosecurity measures and report any suspicion.

“The Enugu State Government is committed to ensuring the safety of its residents and the sustainability of the poultry sector,” he said.

He, however, called for cooperation from all stakeholders to essentially prevent the spread of HPAI and protect both human and animal health.

“For further inquiries or to report any suspicious cases, please contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization. We appreciate your vigilance and cooperation in this matter,” Mr Ubru said.

(NAN)