The National Center for Animal Health (CENASA) warns breeders and the general population about the proximity and possible occurrence of bird flu in Cuba given the spread of this disease on all continents.
Photo: ACN
Commonly known as avian influenza, it is a contagious viral infection that affects wild and domestic birds and has two patterns, distinguished by their high or low pathogenicity, depending on the severity with which it affects free-range birds.
As of late 2021, the animal health situation is quite complex due to the occurrence of multiple outbreaks around the world.
This health condition is strained in most at-risk countries or areas where rapid spread has occurred.
Currently, bird impact is reported in both wild and domestic birds in this geographic area, a situation that is straining surveillance mechanisms to prevent their arrival on the seriously threatened island.
Animal health authorities warn that the number of outbreaks in countries in the region is expected to increase in the coming months, following the seasonal pattern.
For this reason, the World Organization for Animal Health (WHO) recommends that “countries increase epidemiological surveillance for early detection and timely response to potential animal health threats with public health implications, which requires the approach. across sectors”.
With the innovative “One Health” approach, which international organizations for the protection of humans, animals and the environment refer to, the essential aspects are comprehensively addressed in order to prevent the penetration of diseases and avoid damage.
Avian influenza is not present in Cuba, but given its behavior and the risk of its introduction, mainly by migratory birds in their migratory phase, the National Center for Animal Health recommends that professionals, technicians, breeders and the general public take appropriate action can mitigate the effects of the disease.
CENASA recommends avoiding contact of wild birds with poultry farms, adopting extreme biosecurity measures in poultry facilities and prohibiting the transfer of sick birds.
In addition, it is recommended not to bring birds home from hunting and to carry out their treatment in the same place where they were caught. The means used in the hunting and slaughter of these birds must be disinfected before being brought into the pens.
Finally, the center warns at the first sign of illness or death of livestock or wild birds not to touch the carcasses and to notify the local veterinary service immediately.
(Acquired from ACN)