The Federal Government has confirmed an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, in Kano State, affecting various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowls, and turkeys.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Dr. Taiwo Olasoju, representing the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, authorities expressed concerns about the increased risk of the disease spreading during this period.
The statement called for the adoption of strict biosecurity measures and close coordination between state veterinary offices and stakeholders to contain the outbreak.
The government stressed the importance of public awareness and encouraged the prompt reporting of any unusual poultry deaths to prevent the virus from spreading to neighboring states.
The outbreak was traced to an incident in December 2024, according to Dr. Usman Gwarzo, Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) in Kano State.
Dr. Gwarzo explained that a young man from Galadanchi quarters in Gwale Local Government Area purchased a duck from Janguza Market in Tofa LGA. After the duck’s sudden death, his flock of chickens also perished, prompting an investigation at the Gwale Veterinary Clinic, where avian influenza was suspected.
In response, the government has ramped up surveillance and is promoting preventive measures to lessen the impact on poultry farmers and the economy.
Stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in managing the outbreak to protect public health and the poultry industry.