Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture suspends fairs with poultry to prevent bird flu

A decree published by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) suspended holding exhibitions, tournaments, fairs, and other events with birds to prevent the spread of avian influenza (H5N1).

The measure was published in this Thursday’s edition, 30, of the Official Gazette of the Union.

The rule also suspended the “raising of birds in the open air, with access to paddocks without screens on top” in establishments registered by the Ministry.

The restriction extends throughout the country and is valid for 90 days (Photo)

The measures are valid throughout Brazil for any species of productive, ornamental, passerine, wild, or exotic birds that are in captivity or raised for other purposes.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the ordinance will last 90 days and can be extended.

The measure is similar to that adopted in neighboring countries after cases of avian influenza began to affect wild birds and poultry.

In Brazil, there are still no confirmed cases of avian influenza, according to the Ministry.

Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay are among the countries in the region that have confirmed animal deaths due to the disease.

In São Paulo, the government issued a statement informing animal health authorities and cattle ranchers of the “need to strengthen biosecurity measures to the maximum”.

Two weeks ago, Minister Carlos Fávaro attended a meeting with leaders from six South American countries to discuss collective measures that can be adopted to prevent the disease.

On Wednesday 29, the Chilean Ministry of Health confirmed the first case of avian influenza in a human being.

The country has recorded cases of the disease in wild animals since the end of 2022.

With information from Revista Oeste