No sign of the bird flu, confined to Kelantan, spreading to humans, says health ministry.
PUTRAJAYA: Broiler chickens and eggs available in the market are safe for consumption as the products are supplied by the country’s chicken breeders and operators, and are certified free from H5N1 avian flu, says the Veterinary Services Department.
It said the breeders and operators were constantly monitoring the situation and imposing control on the birds’ movement in their respective states.
“The level of preparation in other states (except for Kelantan) which remain free (from H5N1) is at an all-time high,” it added in a statement here today.
According to the statement, the H5N1 outbreak was currently being controlled within a 30km radius from Kampung Pulau Tebu (the location where the outbreak was detected), involving six jurisdictions in Kelantan, namely Kota Bharu, Pasir Mas, Pasir Puteh, Tumpat, Tanah Merah and Bachok.
“A total of 121 birds and 31 eggs had been culled in a culling exercise at 18 locations yesterday, while three chickens were seized in the inspection on 208 vehicles in the state.
“The culling exercise continues at other locations. In total, 37,862 of birds and 15,450 eggs had been culled so far. In addition, 3,602 samples from 613 bird owners had been taken,” said the department.
Deputy Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya today confirmed that there was no H5N1 infection from chicken on humans reported in Kelantan so far and advised members of the public not to panic.
The infection had also not spread to neighbouring Terengganu.
On March 15, the Kelantan government declared H5N1 as a state disaster. -FMT
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