DA bans birds, poultry from Japan, Austria

Department of Agriculture prohibits the importation of domestic and wild birds from Japan and Austria due to avian flu outbreak

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has banned the importation of domestic and wild birds from Japan and Austria due to the outbreak of avian influenza in these countries.

The ban includes all live birds, poultry products, and hatching eggs. The DA said the ban will be in effect until further notice.

The DA said the ban is necessary to prevent the spread of avian influenza to the Philippines. The Philippines has been free from avian influenza for over a year.

The DA urged the public to cooperate with the ban and to report any suspected cases of avian influenza to the nearest veterinary office.

Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect both domestic and wild birds. The virus can be spread through contact with infected birds or their feces.

Symptoms of avian influenza in birds can include respiratory distress, coughing, sneezing, and diarrhea. The virus can also cause death in birds.

Avian influenza can also be transmitted to humans, but this is rare. Human cases of avian influenza are typically mild, but they can be severe in some cases.

The DA said the public can help prevent the spread of avian influenza by following these tips:

• Avoid contact with sick birds or their feces.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling birds or their feces.
• Cook poultry products thoroughly before eating them.
• Do not feed raw poultry products to pets.
• Report any suspected cases of avian influenza to the nearest veterinary office.

The DA said it is working with the Department of Health to monitor the situation and to take steps to prevent the spread of avian influenza to the Philippines.