Lazatin instructs monitoring of backyard animals amid Bird Flu re-emergence

Posted on March 17, 2020 by Admin

ANGELES CITY -- Following reports of the Avian Flu, also known as Bird Flu from nearby provinces, Mayor Carmelo 'Pogi' Lazatin Jr. orders Barangay officials to strictly instruct backyard raisers of birds to monitor any sudden deaths.

The order is in line with Memorandum No. 524, Series of 2020 that states: "Due to reports of avian flu (bird flu) cases in nearby provinces, you are hereby directed to instruct backyard raises of chickens, quails, ducks and geese (whether for consumption, for cock fighting, or for other purposes) in all 33 barangays of Angeles City to monitor their animals for any sudden or unexplained deaths, so that the City Veterinary Office may conduct necessary testing."

According to the Department of Health, the bird flu is not easily transmitted to humans but possible "through inhalation of contamination with infected discharges or feces of sick chicken."

Mayor Lazatin said the strict monitoring acts as a precautionary measure against the avian flu from causing illnesses to humans and the agriculture sector.

Moreover, he added that the monitoring serves as a protection for public health, especially amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

"It's overwhelming to have another strain of disease disrupt our country, but rest assured that here at Angeles, we will deal with public health concerns as a top priority, never faltering in our dedication to serve," said Lazatin.

It can be recalled that the Avian Flu already emerged back in 2017, affecting Pampanga and Nueva Ecija. However, there were no records of human transmission during its strain.