Nigerian outbreak confirmed
May 25, 2007 by Grace Ibay
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
An H5N1 outbreak has been confirmed in the northern province of Zamfara, Nigeria. At least 200 birds have been culled and there is concern that the virus may be spreading among poultry farms in the African nation.
Nigeria has suffered as having the fastest growing spread of the bird flu virus in Africa. A weak monitoring system and unqualified health personnel are being blamed for the uncontrolled outbreaks.
Nigeria Veterinary Association President Garba Sharabutu:
“Up till now, the populace has not come to terms with the issue of movement of birds,” he said. “And the second thing is that, we are also trying to caution members of our profession and the quack doctors that move about, because by the time people engage people who do not know the implication of moving from one farm to another without taking necessary precautions, it is possible to have these [new infections].”
[source: VOANews]
Tags: bird flu, outbreak, Africa
