The poultry sector department of San José is on alert following the detection of a new outbreak of avian influenza that has affected more than 100 backyard chickens. The Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries (MGAP) confirmed the presence of the virus, which has generated major concern in the zone.
The director of the farm, Nicolás Chiesa, explained that these are animals for self-consumption, but even so the virus can spread and affect other nearby birds. The situation is even more worrisome, since this is the second outbreak detected in San José.
So far, nine outbreaks have been registered in six different departments of the country, including Canelones, Flores, Maldonado, Montevideo and Tacuarembó.
The spread of the virus is a threat to poultry production and can have serious economic consequences for the sector.
What is bird flu and how is it spread?
Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease that affects birds, especially poultry and waterfowl. It is caused by the avian influenza virus, which can be transmitted by direct contact with infected birds or their secretions, as well as through the consumption of contaminated meat or eggs.
The spread of bird flu can be difficult to control because of the ease with which it spreads from bird to bird. The disease can be transmitted by sick or virus-carrying birds without showing symptoms, making it difficult to detect and control.
Although bird flu mainly affects birds, some subtypes of the avian influenza virus can infect humans. Transmission to humans usually occurs through close contact with infected birds or through exposure to surfaces contaminated with the virus.
The symptoms of bird flu in humans are similar to those of the common flu, such as fever, cough, headache and muscle aches. However, bird flu can be more serious in some cases, leading to serious complications such as pneumonia and, in extreme cases, death.
