The Anambra State Government has alerted members of the public to be cautious of what they consume so as to avoid being infected by Avian Influenza, otherwise known as bird flu.

A press release signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Uju Nwogu, alerted people of the state to the re-emergence of the disease. She called on people to observe personal hygiene, and to wash their hands with soap and clean water after contact with birds and poultry products, adding that all poultry meat and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating.

The statement issued yesterday in Awka also urged poultry farmers in the state to always clean their surroundings, and immediately report cases of sick birds to the nearest veterinary clinic.

Veterinary officers in the state have also been urged to mount surveillance and embark on sensitisation visits, particularly at live-bird markets in the state, to prevent the spread of the flu.

Though usually associated with birds, the disease can also be transmitted from bird to man hence sellers of chicken in the various markets in Anambra have resorted to the wearing of gloves and nose bands while carrying out their daily business.

A chicken seller at the Eke Awka Market, Mrs. Rita Okafor, said that the news of a fresh outbreak of bird flu is a big source of worry to chicken dealers in the state.

In her words, “The people selling who never pray together before starting off the day’s business have resorted to doing that because death is scary. Nobody wants to die but it has also made some of us to be more cautious.

“There are some that don’t bother about their surroundings but the bird flu scare has made them to start keeping their surroundings as well as where the chickens are kept neat.”

Bird Flu can be transmitted through direct contact with infected birds or poultry materials. The symptoms include fever, sneezing, cough, diarrhea, trouble breathing, general ill feeling, muscle aches, runny nose and sore throat.

•Photo shows Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State.

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