Osun residents cautioned against Avian Influenza virus

Abimbola Abatta, Osogbo

As 2021’s Eid al-Adha festival approaches, residents of Osun State have been cautioned against the Avian Influenza virus, considering that different animals would be brought into the state for sale.

The disease, according to the Osun State Ministry of Agriculture, has already been discovered in eight states in Nigeria.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Adedayo Adewole, gave the warning during the sensitisation programme held at the Veterinary Clinic, Station Road in Osogbo to enlighten live bird marketers on the ravaging effect of Avian Influenza disease on livestock.

Adewole, who was represented by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Abosede Olatokun explained that Avian Influenza disease can affect birds, animals and even human beings through consumption.

He advised the citizenry to examine the kind of bird, goat and ram they buy in the markets, while calling on market women to maintain proper hygiene to prevent the disease.

The commissioner also identified some of the symptoms of Avian Influenza disease to include, among others, cough, swallowing comb, diarrhoea, ready tightness, lack of appetite and death of animals.

He further explained that human beings can also contract the disease by touching animals or the discharge from such animals.