All 137 oropharyngeal swab samples collected from domestic avian species within a 1-kilometer radius of the previously affected farm in Talisay, Camarines Norte tested negative for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Department of Agriculture (DA)-Bicol regional executive director Rodel Tornilla announced this development following the release of negative results from real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Influenza Type A.
DA RFO 5 Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL) administered the tests and transmitted to the Bicol regional office on Dec. 12, 2024.
Tornillo said the 1-kilometer radius surveillance area encompassed Barangays San Nicolas, Binanuaan and San Francisco in Talisay; Barangays Awitan and Gahonon in Daet; and Barangay Ginacutan in Vinzons, all located in Camarines Norte.
Samples were collected from domestic avian species, including ducks, gamefowl and chickens owned by residents in these barangays.
The DA Bicol Regional Quick Response Team (RQRT) will extend active surveillance to the next 7-kilometer radius from the affected areas in Camarines Norte.
It asked the public to maintain strict biosecurity measures, such as proper handwashing after contact with birds or poultry.
Unusual illnesses or bird deaths should be reported promptly to the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Animal Industry or local agricultural offices, the DA said.
