DA lifts import ban on birds, poultry products from Denmark
Philippines allows imports after 14 months
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted the temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds and their products from Denmark following the absence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or bird flu in the country for more than a year now.
Poultry sector welcomes development
The lifting of the ban was welcomed by poultry industry stakeholders, who said it would help address the shortage of chicken meat supply in the country. The Philippines has been experiencing a chicken shortage since last year due to a combination of factors, including the bird flu outbreak in Pampanga and the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in Luzon.
Denmark declared bird flu-free
The DA lifted the ban after the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) declared Denmark free from bird flu last May 18, 2023. The OIE is the global standard-setting organization for animal health and welfare.
What is bird flu?
Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect both domestic and wild birds. It can cause severe respiratory illness and death in birds. The virus can also be transmitted to humans through contact with infected birds or their droppings.
What are the symptoms of bird flu in humans?
The symptoms of bird flu in humans can vary, but they typically include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, bird flu can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death.
How is bird flu treated?
There is no specific treatment for bird flu. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
How can bird flu be prevented?
There are several things that can be done to prevent bird flu, including:
What is the economic impact of bird flu?
Bird flu can have a significant economic impact on the poultry industry. In 2015, an outbreak of bird flu in the United States led to the loss of more than 50 million birds and cost the industry more than $3 billion.