LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Agriculture in Bicol (DA-5) on Thursday said Camarines Norte has been declared bird influenza-free after a successful containment effort, following an isolated case in December.
In a report on Thursday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said the province has met the World Organization for Animal Health’s (WOAH) criteria of not logging any new cases for at least 28 days, since reporting a single case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N2 detected in a backyard duck farm in Talisay last December.
Following the case in December, the local government unit, in coordination with the DA-5 and the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), quickly implemented stringent control strategy, including depopulation of infected poultry, thorough cleaning and disinfection, movement restrictions, and enhanced surveillance protocols under the Avian Influenza Protection Program.
A surveillance conducted within a one- and seven- kilometer radius later found no additional bird flu infections, with all tests returning negative.
“Before this isolated case, the province had maintained a clean record regarding avian influenza. The successful containment and eradication efforts were made possible through the collaboration of local government units, DA, BAl, and strict biosecurity and quarantine measures,” Laurel said.
The DA added the province’s prompt and effective disease management not only prevented further spread of the virus but also restored confidence in the local poultry industry and reinforced public trust in regional food security.
