This highly pathogenic avian influenza, which is a public health concern was discovered in a layer poultry farm in Thies, Senegal, with 100,000 chickens of which 58,000 chickens got sick and died from the disease while the remaining 42,000 chickens were killed as a measure to control the outbreak.
The official notification was issued to the OIE World Organization for Animal Health on the 7th of January 2021 and it is against this move that the Veterinary Services of The Gambia came to know about this highly pathogenic avian influenza.
“Therefore, the national taskforce composed of EDC, NDMA, and DPWM and led by DLS is invoking the Integrated National Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan for Avian & Human Influenza (AHI) (2015-2019) for the implementation of the necessary activities to address the risk posed by the presence of HPAI virus in Senegal and to continue with efforts to further secure its absence in The Gambia.”
“HPAI known as Bird Flu is a highly contagious viral disease with a significant zoonotic risk and a major global public health concern or potential pandemic similar to COVID-19 or even worse. HPAI control measures are centered on domesticated poultry like chicken.” The release added.
The DLS and its partners, the release added, are taking this opportunity to urge everyone to remain calm but vigilant and report any unusual animal health event in poultry only to DLS staff.
“The ultimate objective of this message is protecting human lives and enhancing food security being a clear indication of the commitment of The Government of The Gambia to protect its citizens and their livelihoods.”
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