Bird Flu Outbreak Confirmed in Rivers State Poultry Farm

The Rivers State Government has confirmed an outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, at a 3,000-capacity poultry farm in the state. The outbreak, first reported on January 17, 2025, has prompted immediate containment measures to prevent the disease from spreading further.

According to government officials, the affected farm has been quarantined, with all infected birds depopulated to halt the virus’s transmission. The premises have also undergone thorough decontamination. Meanwhile, veterinary teams are conducting surveillance in surrounding areas to identify and mitigate any potential risks.

As part of its response strategy, the Rivers State Government has partnered with the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) and other stakeholders to launch a public awareness campaign. The initiative aims to educate poultry farmers and residents about the symptoms of avian influenza, biosecurity protocols, and effective disease prevention measures.

“This outbreak underscores the critical need for strict adherence to biosecurity measures in poultry farms. Swift action is key to minimizing the impact of such diseases,” said a spokesperson for the state veterinary department.

The government has urged poultry farmers to report any unusual deaths or signs of illness in their birds to veterinary authorities immediately. Residents have also been advised to avoid handling sick or dead birds and to maintain high hygiene standards when dealing with poultry products.