Actively responding to avian influenza

Functional units took 3,966 surveillance samples from 26 provinces and cities from 19,830 poultry, through testing, the positive rate for influenza A virus was 37.72%, of which, positive for influenza A/H5N1 was 1.19%; A/H5N6 was 1.82%.

Many experts have stated that in the coming time, avian influenza is at risk of an outbreak due to such causes including a very large poultry flock (467 million), high density of poultry farming, adverse weather changes; the organisation of vaccination for influenza in poultry in some areas has reached a low rate, especially for farm households, etc.

Therefore, the possibility of influenza A/H7N9 virus and some other strains of virus such as A/H5N2, A/H5N8 infection are very high, which can affect public health, especially in the context of the acute respiratory disease epidemic caused by the new coronavirus (Covid-19).

The MARD has just issued an official dispatch asking all provinces and cities to focus on drastic and synchronous implementation of measures to prevent and control avian influenza.

Accordingly, localities should ensure epidemiological, care and husbandry processes in accordance with the biosecurity process; proactively monitor and take samples for disease testing in order to promptly warn and apply disease prevention and control measures, and effectively use vaccines.

At least 80% of poultry flocks must be vaccinated. In the first quarter of 2020, activities related to cleaning, disinfection and environmental detoxification in key and high-risk areas should be well organised in order to destroy pathogens.

The MARD also sent a document to Chairmen of the People's Committees of the provinces, cities and the National Steering Committee for combating smuggling, trade fraud, and counterfeits to prevent, detect and strictly handle cases of illegal transportation of poultry into Vietnam.

In addition, livestock and veterinary experts also recommend that functional forces to intensify the inspection of landfills and canals to promptly handle floating dead poultry of unknown origin (if any), at the same time, detect them early and take measures to prevent widespread disease in poultry flocks.

Training courses should be organised for farmers to raise their awareness on active prevention and control of avian influenza. Businesses should work closely to improve the operational efficiency of linking chains whilst consumers should also buy poultry products of clear origin.