Avian Influenza: Agriculture Ministry to monitor zoonotic risks amid outbreak
The Kano State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources has taken decisive action to address a confirmed case of Avian Influenza (AI) in the state. The outbreak, which was detected at a multi-species backyard poultry farm in Hausawa quarters, Gwale Local Government Area, underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in managing zoonotic risks.
Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources, emphasized the ministry’s proactive approach in a recent statement. He highlighted ongoing surveillance and sensitization efforts across poultry farms and live bird markets, as well as inter-agency collaboration with the Ministry of Health to minimize the risk of zoonotic transmission to humans.
The incident was first reported on December 19, 2024, when a farmer noticed sudden bird deaths and respiratory distress in his flock. Laboratory tests conducted on January 1, 2025, confirmed the presence of the AI virus. Out of the affected birds, 35 died from the disease, while 16 were culled to prevent its spread.
The ministry’s rapid response team swiftly implemented measures, including the depopulation and decontamination of the affected farm, while samples were collected from neighboring farms and live bird markets for further investigation. Dr. Mahmoud has called on poultry stakeholders to adopt strict biosecurity practices and report unusual flock deaths promptly.
To enhance preparedness, the ministry has intensified awareness campaigns and partnered with health authorities to mitigate human infection risks.
Source- Daily Post
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
Significance of the Outbreak
This isolated case of Avian Influenza serves as a critical reminder of the vulnerability of poultry systems to zoonotic diseases, particularly in mixed-species and backyard farming setups. The detection and containment efforts underscore the importance of early reporting and robust surveillance systems.
Key Concerns for Stakeholders:
- Economic Impact: While the outbreak is localized, the economic losses from bird deaths, culling, and farm closures can ripple through the value chain, affecting farmers, suppliers, and traders.
- Public Health Risks: The potential for zoonotic transmission highlights the importance of human health surveillance in poultry production zones.
- Market Confidence: Outbreaks can erode consumer trust in poultry products, necessitating transparent communication about safety measures.
Recommendations
- Enhanced Biosecurity: Farmers should implement stringent biosecurity protocols, including controlled farm access, regular cleaning, and disinfection of equipment and facilities.
- Capacity Building: Train poultry farmers and market stakeholders in early disease detection and response mechanisms.
- Supply Chain Resilience: Strengthen links between farms, veterinary services, and health authorities to ensure swift containment of outbreaks.
- Risk Communication: Educate the public about the steps being taken to ensure poultry product safety, bolstering consumer confidence.
- Policy Support: Government should invest in veterinary infrastructure and subsidize preventive measures, particularly for smallholder and backyard farmers.
Conclusion
The swift actions by the Kano State Ministry of Agriculture are commendable. However, this incident underscores the need for continuous investment in disease prevention and response systems. Agri-food stakeholders must collaborate to ensure that outbreaks are managed effectively to safeguard public health and sustain the poultry industry.
