The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) advises poultry producers, livestock owners, industry stakeholders, and the general public that the Authority is closely monitoring the recent outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Honduras and Costa Rica. As a precautionary measure, Belize is on heightened alert to strengthen preparedness and safeguard the country’s poultry sector.
Belize remains free from HPAI. However, the risk of introduction is high due to our proximity to affected countries, the migration of wild birds, and the movement of resident bird populations throughout the region.
To help ensure Belize remains free from HPAI, the public is reminded to:
- Notify any sick or dead birds, whether wild or domestic, to the relevant authorities (BAHA, the Ministry of Agriculture, or the Forest Department).
- Avoid handling or transporting sick or dead birds unless absolutely necessary and observe appropriate biosecurity precautions.
- Strengthen biosecurity measures on farms, in backyards, and at other premises where birds are kept.
HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds, including chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, quail, and wild bird species. It can also be detected in some mammals and, in rare cases, humans.
HPAI is characterized by sudden death, often affecting multiple birds; weakness and loss of appetite; nasal discharge; lack of coordination; swelling of the head, neck, eyelids, comb, wattles, or legs; and purple or bluish discolouration of the comb, wattles, and legs.
Cases involving sick birds or sudden bird deaths should be reported immediately to the BAHA Animal Health Department at:
- Orange Walk Office: 302-1388
- Central Farm Office: 824-4872
BAHA reminds the public that the illegal importation and movement of animals, including birds, and animal products continues to pose a significant threat to Belize’s animal health status and food security. The introduction of HPAI could have serious consequences for poultry production, food security, livelihoods, and trade.
Protecting Belize from HPAI is a shared responsibility. BAHA remains committed to working closely with producers, industry partners, government agencies, and the public to protect the national flock and maintain Belize’s disease-free status.
For further information, contact the Animal Health Department at animalhealth@baha.org.bz or call 824-4872.
The post Belize on high alert as surveillance intensifies for highly pathogenic Avian Influenza appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) advises poultry producers, livestock owners, industry stakeholders, and the general public that the Authority is closely monitoring the recent outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Honduras and Costa Rica. As a precautionary measure, Belize is on heightened alert to strengthen preparedness and safeguard the country’s poultry sector.
The post Belize on high alert as surveillance intensifies for highly pathogenic Avian Influenza appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
