The Federal Government has confirmed an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu) in Kano State, affecting multiple bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowls and turkeys.
This was contained in a circular issued on Tuesday by Dr. Taiwo Olasoju on behalf of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria.
In the circular, the government raised concerns about the heightened risk of the disease spreading, particularly during this season.
The circular urged state veterinary offices and relevant agencies to strengthen surveillance systems and implement strict biosecurity measures to curb the spread of the virus.
“We need to take adequate preventive measures,” the circular emphasised, calling for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to prevent the disease from spreading to neighbouring states and regions.
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Authorities also recommended public awareness campaigns and close monitoring of poultry populations to detect and address new cases promptly.
Also, the Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Kano State branch, Dr. Usman Gwarzo, recounted the circumstances surrounding the first reported case to SolaceBase.
“In December 2024, a young man from Galadanchi quarters in Gwale Local Government Area of the state bought a duck from Janguza market in Tofa LGA and introduced it to his flock of hens, chickens and turkeys. The duck suddenly died, followed by 37 chickens. The young man has about 50 chickens in a separate cage of up and down. The duck was mixed with the chickens in the lower case and they all died. Then the carcasses were taken to the Gwale Veterinary Clinic, where avian influenza was suspected,” Dr. Gwarzo explained.
He noted that samples sent for testing confirmed the presence of the virus in the first week of January 2025.
According to him, the other 13 chickens were slaughtered to prevent the spread of the disease.
”Presently, the house of the reported first case has been fumigated same with the Janguza market and that of Sabon Gari and the exercise will continue, ”the chairman said.
However, no similar cases have been reported from commercial poultry farms, providing some relief to poultry producers.
It could be recalled that bird flu outbreaks have been a recurring challenge in Nigeria’s poultry industry, often leading to significant economic losses.