CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public to “observe proper sanitation to avoid bird flu infection.”
The DOH said cleanliness should be maintained in dealing with any fowls or poultry products to prevent contamination or cross infection amid the avian influenza outbreak in the province.
DOH Assistant Secretary Enrique Tayag said that proper hygiene, like washing of hands, must always be observed as it is the best first line of defense against any possible infection.
“We understand the anxiety or fear of the public but please remember this, we don’t eat raw chicken and as long as we cook it, we are protected against any bacteria, viruses that may have contaminated it,” Tayag said.
There are still no reported cases of bird flu virus transmitted to humans by consumption of contaminated meat but Tayag said that preventive measures must be implemented.
He explained that it may take one to two weeks to investigate the outbreak and verify possible cases of infection among people who have been exposed to dead poultry, as well as the residents in the affected areas.
“And if you get any fever, especially when you handled dressed chicken in San Luis, Pampanga or nearby, then you have to report to your hospital so they can make a confirmation,” he said.
Tayag assured the public that the DOH and Department of Agriculture (DA) are on top of the situation and will oversee the culling of the infected birds.
Some 200,000 chickens, quails and ducks were reported to be infected by the said influenza in Barangays Sta. Rita and San Carlos in San Luis town.
The said fowls are scheduled to be slaughtered to prevent the spread of the virus.
Seven other towns and a city are being monitored by government agencies to check if there are any fowls infected in the area.