Cuba: Alert of the threat of avian influenza by migratory birds

The National Center for Animal Health (CENASA) alerts breeders and the general population about the imminent appearance of avian influenza in Cuba, given the spread of this disease in all continents.

Generally known as avian influenza, it is an infectious viral infection that affects wild and domestic birds, and it has two types, depending on the severity of its impact on free-range birds, and is characterized by its high or low pathogenicity.

Since the end of 2021, the animal health situation has become very complex due to the emergence of multiple outbreaks worldwide.

This health condition is tense in most threatened countries or territories where there has been rapid spread.

Currently, avian affect has been reported in both wild and domestic birds in this geographical area, a situation that strains monitoring mechanisms to prevent their access to the island, which is under serious threat.

Animal health authorities warn that, according to the seasonal pattern, the number of outbreaks in the countries of the region is expected to increase in the coming months.

For this reason, the World Organization for Animal Health (WHO) recommends that “countries strengthen epidemiological surveillance for early detection and timely response to potential threats to animal health that have an impact on public health and for which an appropriate approach is necessary.” between sectors.

With the innovative “One Health” approach that international human, animal and environmental welfare organizations are associated with, essential aspects are comprehensively addressed to prevent the introduction of disease and avoid harm.

Avian influenza does not exist in Cuba, but given its behavior and the risk of its entry, mainly through migratory birds, which are in their migration period, the National Center for Animal Health recommends professionals, technicians, breeders and the population in general, to take measures that can mitigate the impact of the disease.

CENASA recommends that contact with wild birds be avoided on poultry farms, that maximum biosecurity measures be taken in poultry facilities and that transport of sick birds be prohibited.

In addition, it is advised that birds from hunting should not be taken home, and that they be traded in the same place where they were captured; The means used in hunting and slaughtering these birds must be disinfected before entering homes.

Finally, the center warns that at the first sign of illness or death in farmed or wild birds, do not touch the carcasses and report it to the local veterinary service immediately.

(with information from ACN)

See also:

Migratory Bird Prints