Uruguay declares emergency over bird flu — Anadolu Agency
Uruguay has declared a nationwide public health emergency after highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza was detected in backyard poultry in the Colonia department in the country’s southwest.
The outbreak was confirmed by the Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries through the General Directorate of Veterinary Services. Concerns arose after birds died: the initial rapid test was negative, but a subsequent official laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of the virus, Anadolu Agency reports.
Restrictions on poultry movement
Authorities banned operations at the affected farm and introduced strict restrictions on the movement of non-commercial poultry. The decision also limits the domestic movement of backyard and unregulated birds, except for those registered in the official poultry monitoring system.
The country has suspended fairs, auctions and public exhibitions involving birds. Free-range and backyard poultry must be kept in enclosed covered facilities to prevent contact with wild birds.
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Biosecurity measures
Veterinary services have begun the culling and safe disposal of all birds exposed at the affected facility. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of materials that may have been contaminated are also being carried out.
Poultry producers were advised to strengthen biosecurity measures: restrict access for outsiders and vehicles, protect water and feed from wild birds, and enhance disinfection protocols. Officials stressed that consuming poultry meat and eggs poses no risk to human health. Agricultural services are coordinating with health authorities to monitor people who may have been exposed to the virus.
Avian influenza A(H5N1) mainly affects birds, but in rare cases can be transmitted to humans through close contact. Citizens were urged not to touch sick or dead birds.
