Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, has reassured residents that there is no cause for concern following the recent confirmation of a bird flu case in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Information Officer of the Ministry of Health, Ibrahim Abdullahi, Dr. Yusuf emphasized that the situation is under control.
“The case we have is isolated and not significant enough to be declared an outbreak. The ministry is on top of the issue and has taken proactive measures to contain it before it becomes a threat to public health,” he said.
The development followed reports that in December 2024, a resident of Gwale Local Government Area introduced a duck purchased from Janguza Market in Tofa Local Government Area into his flock, which included hens, guinea fowls, and chickens. Shortly after, respiratory distress was observed among the birds, leading to the death of 35 out of 50 birds.
Laboratory tests conducted in January 2025 confirmed the presence of the bird flu virus in the flock.
“Upon receiving the diagnosis, the Ministry of Agriculture promptly sealed the premises, culled the remaining birds, and decontaminated the compound,” the statement read.
The Ministry also decontaminated the live bird market in Janguza and sensitized sellers on bird flu risks and prevention strategies.
Dr. Yusuf outlined the government’s efforts to contain the situation.
“We convened a meeting with the Emergency Preparedness Response and One Health Committees, involving the ministries of agriculture, environment, and water resources, as well as our partners, to strategize on combating this issue effectively,” he said.
The Commissioner announced plans for weekly stakeholder meetings and daily surveillance reports from local government areas to monitor developments closely.
“We will intensify surveillance, especially among poultry and bird rearers, and provide regular updates to the public while keeping Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf informed of the situation,” he added.
He also warned about the potential risks of bird flu to humans, explaining that the virus could cause symptoms such as fever, mucous, and redness of the eyes.
Dr. Yusuf urged poultry farmers to serve as frontline surveillance officers by promptly reporting unusual health conditions in their birds.
“Protecting your flock is safeguarding your wealth and health. Early reporting allows for timely action to prevent further spread of the disease,” he said.
