Mayor Khymer Olaso convenes an emergency meeting with various city departments including police and military units to discuss the banning of the entry of poultry and livestock products from Diplahan, Buug, and Imelda, Sibugay Province due to Avian Influenza or bird’s flu.
This, following confirmation by the Bureau of Animal Industry that three (3) farms in Diplahan, Sibugay were found to be affected with avian influenza.
Mayor Olaso has tasked the OCVET, CDRRMO, CHO and City Legal Office, as well as the police and Joint Task Force Zamboanga to intensify checkpoint operations and to implement the ban.
An executive order has been issued by the mayor formalizing the ban.
Avian influenza, is a highly contagious viral disease caused by influenza A viruses that primarily affects wild and domestic birds.
City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite said while primarily a disease in animals, some strains (like H5N1) can sporadically infect humans and other mammals through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.
Recall that the city has an existing ban on the entry of poultry and livestock products based on executive orders earlier issued. The areas cited were Titay , Ipil, Naga, R.T. Lim, Tampilisan and Calawit, Zamboanga del Norte and Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental and Tangub City. (photos: Miljohn Mancao)
Source: City Government of Zamboanga