DVS told to intensify efforts to stop spread of avian flu - Ahmad Shabery

The Department of Veterinary Services has been directed to intensify measures to stop the spread of Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Kelantan.

Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the measures should include increasing the capacity of the workforce required and the possibility of obtaining assistance from the National Security Council (NSC).

"I also ask all parties, particularly the local populace to give their cooperation including reporting immediately if there are signs of the disease among their poultry, "he said in a statement to Bernama today.

The H5N1 virus, which affects poultry, was detected in Kampung Pulau Tebu, Tunjong, here, on March 6 after a few chickens died.

The Kelantan government has declared the outbreak of bird flu (H5N1) as a state disaster.

This was due to new outbreaks, namely in Bachok and Pasir Puteh, after Kota Bharu and Pasir Mas.

State Agriculture, Agro-Biotechnology and Green Technology Committee chairman Datuk Che Abdullah Mat Nawi said the decision was made at the state executive council meeting today in accordance with the National Security Council Directive 20 (NSC 20).

To date, 23,768 chickens and 881 eggs have been destroyed involving 129 premises as a precautionary measure. - BERNAMA