Transmission and Role of Migratory Birds
- Migratory birds can acquire the Bird Flu virus by contact with infected poultry in endemic areas during migration stop-overs.
- They may transmit the virus to other domestic poultry and humans through direct contact.
- Understanding the infection pathway underscores the need for precautionary measures.
Prohibition on Capture, Trade, and Handling
- Prohibits capturing and handling of migratory and wild birds.
- Forbids sale and purchase of these birds.
- Requires reporting of illegal sales to authorities.
Reporting Obligations
- Individuals who encounter migratory or wild birds must report to local government units such as Barangay, Town, or City officials.
- Reporting can also be made to national agencies including Parks and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), regional agriculture offices, provincial/city veterinary and environment offices, and municipal agriculture offices.
Safety Precautions for Necessary Handling
- When handling migratory or wild birds is unavoidable, protective nose/mouth masks must be worn.
- Handwashing and cleaning of exposed body parts are mandatory after contact.
- Contaminated clothing and footwear must be properly washed or disinfected.
- Highlights that avian flu can be transmitted primarily through inhalation and also via hand-to-face contact.
Prevention of Transmission to Domestic Poultry
- Strongly advises against contact between migratory/wild birds and domestic poultry.
- If contact occurs, recommends quarantining the domestic poultry for at least thirty days to monitor for infection.
Contact Hotlines for Bird Flu Related Concerns
- Provides dedicated emergency contact numbers for prompt reporting and consultation:
- BAI Director’s Office: 927-0971
- National Veterinary Quarantine Services: 920-0816
- Philippine Animal Health Center: 920-0429
- PAWB-DENR: 924-6031 to 39
- Department of Health (DOH): 743-8301 to 2350
Enforceability and Compliance
- The advisory mandates strict compliance with the outlined precautionary measures to mitigate the spread of HPAI.
- Signed and adopted by the Secretary of Agriculture Arthur C. Yap on September 28, 2004.