Ministry suspends poultry fairs to avoid avian flu in the country

The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (Mapa) published today (30) an ordinance that suspends, throughout the national territory, the holding of exhibitions, tournaments, fairs and other events with agglomeration of birds. The measure, of a preventive nature, has an initial validity of 90 days and was taken due to the risk of entry and dissemination of cases of avian flu (avian influenza) in the country. The ordinance also suspends, throughout the national territory, the creation of birds in the open air, with access to paddocks without screens in the upper part, in registered establishments. The suspension applies “to any species of production, ornamental, passerine, wild or exotic birds in captivity and other birds bred for other purposes”, says the ordinance. Surveillance In January, a technical note from the Ministry of Health warned of the need to adopt preventive measures against avian flu due to the increase in notification of cases of outbreaks of avian influenza (AI) in several countries around the world. On the occasion, the ministry determined the increase of health surveillance activities in poultry establishments by the State bodies of Animal Sanitary Defense. In addition, epidemiological surveillance for avian influenza was also requested in all migratory bird sites recognized by the Department of Animal Health (DSA). The note drew attention to the intensification of health surveillance activities and attention to inspection actions in all ports, international airports, border posts and special customs and the prohibition of the entry of birds from countries where the disease is present. The ministry determined even stricter requirements for the importation of genetic material from birds, to reduce the risk of avian flu entering the country. “Avian influenza is an exotic disease in Brazil, never detected in national poultry herds, therefore, it is fundamental that everyone involved in the raising of birds maintain a permanent state of attention and vigilance, so that suspected cases can be immediately investigated by the Veterinary Service Official.”

Agência Brasil