Following reports of a deadly bird flu outbreak in parts of Taraba State, the Adamawa State Ministry of Livestock and Agricultural Development has placed border local governments on high alert.
The ministry, through its Rapid Response Team (RRT), urged residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any unusual deaths of birds in their areas.
Four local government areas; Toungo, Jada, Ganye, and Numan which share borders with Taraba State, have been placed under close surveillance.
Authorities say these border zones are most at risk of transmission due to frequent movement of livestock and people between the two states.
The RRT has advised stakeholders, especially poultry farmers and traders, to work together to prevent the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) into Adamawa.
Ministry warns residents to maintain strict hygiene
Addressing journalists and stakeholders in Yola, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Nyalas Bartholomew, described the disease as highly contagious, warning that it can infect and kill both birds and humans.
He explained that surveillance operations had been launched across all communities bordering Taraba State to identify and contain any possible cases.
According to Dr. Bartholomew, last year alone, 242 cases of avian influenza were reported globally, with about 54 percent of infections resulting in death.
“Between January and August this year, 26 new cases were confirmed worldwide, leading to 11 fatalities,” he added.
He called on residents and livestock stakeholders to maintain good hygiene, follow preventive guidelines, and report any suspicious bird deaths or symptoms to the nearest veterinary office or health authority for immediate investigation.
Public advised not to consume dead or infected birds
The RRT leader, Dr. Ige Tilo, cautioned residents to be alert for signs of the disease, such as sudden deaths of birds and bluish discoloration of combs and legs. He strongly warned against eating or selling dead or infected birds, noting that the disease cannot be treated once infection occurs, as there is currently no vaccine available.
Dr. Tilo disclosed that the Rapid Response Team had already swung into action following the Taraba outbreak.
He said the team is engaging in intensive sensitisation campaigns across border communities, monitoring poultry farms, and conducting education programs for farmers and consumers.
He assured that with coordinated efforts from communities and authorities, the spread of bird flu into Adamawa State can be effectively prevented.
