BAHA Heightens Bird Flu Surveillance as Regional Risk Grows

Belize’s poultry industry is on heightened alert as the Belize Agricultural Health Authority, BAHA, increases surveillance against the threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or bird flu. In a release issued today, BAHA said it is closely monitoring outbreaks in neighboring Honduras and Costa Rica. While Belize remains free of the virus, officials say the risk of introduction is high because of the country’s proximity to affected countries and the migration of wild birds.  BAHA is urging poultry producers and the public to immediately report any sick or dead wild or domestic birds and to strengthen biosecurity measures on commercial farms and backyard poultry operations. The public is also advised not to handle or transport sick or dead birds unless absolutely necessary.  Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease that affects poultry and other bird species, causing sudden deaths, weakness, loss of appetite and respiratory symptoms. While the virus mainly affects birds, it has also been detected in some mammals and, in rare instances, humans.  The authority is also warning that the illegal importation of birds and bird products poses a serious threat to Belize’s animal health and food security. An outbreak, BAHA says, could significantly impact poultry production, livelihoods and trade.  The authority is calling on producers and the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases immediately to BAHA’s Animal Health Department to help keep Belize free of the disease.