THE Philippines is grappling with a rising threat from avian influenza (AI), with recent reports from the Bureau of Animal Industry confirming three active H5N1 cases affecting nine farms across Tarlac, Pampanga, and Nueva Ecija.
A broiler breeder farm in Leyte also reported the loss of 4,475 birds from a flock of 60,259 due to an outbreak.
The disease has affected 99 municipalities across the country this year, with outbreaks in Pampanga, Kalinga, Nueva Ecija, Bataan and Leyte, according to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization.
“The poultry industry plays a vital role in ensuring a stable food supply and supporting the economic sustainability of rural communities in the Philippines,” said GPPCCI president Marie Antoinette Mariano in a recent forum organized by the German group and Boeringher.
Since 2003, H5N1 has caused 887 infections and 462 deaths worldwide, according to a study by Dr. David E. Swayne published in the MSD Veterinary Manual.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also warned of the virus’s potential to mutate, underscoring its serious public health threat.
Germany is continuing to support the Philippines in combating bird flu, with the help of German Embassy economic counselor David Klebs.
“Immediate action is needed to control the disease’s spread and protect both the agricultural sector and public health,” said Raul Senedrin, Head of Business Segment – Poultry at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc.
The World Organisation for Animal Health said the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain poses significant risks to both animal and human health, threatening the country’s poultry production and livelihoods.
It said the country’s P68.76-billion poultry sector plays a vital role in the Philippine economy, providing jobs and contributing to agricultural output.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued a regional alert warning on Aug. 12, 2024 that ongoing outbreaks could drive up production costs and consumer prices, leading to supply shortages.