The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 5 (DA RFO-5) has swiftly implemented response and containment measures following the confirmation of a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N2 case in Talisay, Camarines Norte. The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) confirmed the presence of the virus in backyard ducks during routine surveillance conducted by the DA Bicol Regulatory Division.
This marks the first recorded incidence of H5N2 in the Bicol Region.
Upon confirmation, DA Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel P. Tornilla immediately activated the DA Bicol Command Center and deployed the Regional Quick Response Team for Animal Disease & Emergencies (RQRT-ADE) to address the outbreak.
Key control measures implemented include:
- Immediate culling of affected ducks in Talisay and Vinzons, Camarines Norte, to prevent further spread.
- Active surveillance and monitoring within a 1-kilometer radius of the affected areas to identify additional cases.
- Movement restrictions within the quarantine zone to prevent the transport of potentially infected poultry.
The DA RFO-5 is collaborating with the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Camarines Norte, BAI, Department of Health (DOH), and municipal agriculture offices for a unified response. Affected farmers will receive proper indemnification.
Public Safety Assurances
The DA RFO-5 reassures the public that properly cooked chicken meat is safe for consumption. There is no evidence of H5N2 transmission to humans through raw, chilled, or frozen poultry. Consumers are advised to ensure that chicken products bear the Meat Inspection Certificate from the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) for safety.
Preventive Measures
Poultry owners and the public are encouraged to:
- Strengthen biosecurity measures on farms.
- Practice proper hand hygiene.
- Cook poultry products thoroughly.
- Report unusual sickness or deaths in birds to local agriculture or veterinary offices.
The DA RFO-5 remains committed to controlling the spread of Avian Influenza and will provide regular updates on the situation. Cooperation from the public is essential to prevent further outbreaks.
