Bird Flu Now In Seven States- Federal Government

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, on Wednesday 22, disclosed that the Avian Influenza recently reported in Kano and Lagos States, has now spread to five other States.

He listed the states to include Kano, Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Rivers, Edo and Plateau, stating that 21 commercial farms, nine Live Bird Markets and one private zoo have been affected in the seven states.

"A total of 140,390 birds have been associated with bird flu exposures, with 22,573 (16%) mortality

recorded as at today January 21, 2015. The most affected state has been Kano State, where the initial case of the bird flu was found,” Akinwunmi said.

“A total of 103,445 birds have reportedly been exposed to the infection in Kano State, with 15,963 (15%) mortality reported. These cases were found in Gwale, Kumbotso, Tofa, Gaya and Ungogo local governments,” he stated.

He added that the total number of birds under close watch in Lagos State is 31,195 and 3,347 (11%). The three confirmed cases were from Somolu and Eti Osa local governments.

“All the farms have been quarantined and decontaminated. Other locations in Ikorodu, Ojo and Lagos Mainland have already been quarantined, while awaiting confirmation,” the minister said.

The Minister also said that Sagamu in Ogun State has reported two locations, with one positive case (Ifo) and another negative case (Sabo). Of the 1,030 birds currently under watch in the two locations, 163 (15%) have experienced mortality, he said.

“Other states with positive cases reported are Rivers, Delta, Edo and Plateau with figures ranging between 200 and 1,550 mortalities.”

Akinwunmi said in all these states, different levels of interventions, including depopulation, decontamination and quarantine have been introduced, stating also that his ministry was spearheading a quick response system in close collaboration with the state governments’ ministries of agriculture.

The minister  however assured, that the Avian Influenza has been contained in Kano and Lagos states through the joint teams of Federal and states’ staff in the areas.