Bird flu detected in Pakistani farms
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2006-02-28 11:00

Bird Flu has been detected in two farms in Pakistan, said a statement from the Pakistani Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock.

According to the statement issued by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock on Monday, two farms (one breeder and other layer farm) have been detected where moderate mortality was seen during last few days.

Samples collected from these two farms in North West Frontier Province (NWFP) have shown the presence of low pathogenic avian influenza H5, the statement said.

The samples are being sent to World Reference Laboratory in Weybridge in the United Kingdom for confirmation.

As a precautionary measure, these farms have been quarantined and the provincial government of NWFP has been advised to work with Pakistan Poultry Association and take active necessary measures to contain the infection, the statement said.

The government of Pakistan and the provincial governments of the country have been undertaking extensive active surveillance in this regard.

"These farms are isolated cases only but we are increasing intensity of surveillance at these sites. All commercial poultry farms in the area are being sampled and their status will be notified accordingly," it said.

"We have since requested concerned health authorities for medical check-up of the farm workers. They are taking the necessary steps in this regard," the statement added.

The ministry has requested all the poultry farms to increase the level of biosecurity at their farms and immediately report any abnormal or high morality to local veterinarian or district livestock development officer for immediate diagnosis.

The government of Pakistan continues to monitor the situation closely and provincial governments will take all necessary measures for effective implementation, the statement said.

Provincial governments have prepared an emergency preparedness plan that include standard operating procedures for surveillance, diagnosis and control of avian influenza in the country.