Avian flu alert up as migratory birds fly in

DAVAO CITY — Authorities have been closely monitoring the movement of migratory birds that are starting to fly in with the onset of the winter season abroad.

There are at least 55 areas in the country identified as favorite stop-over areas of migratory birds.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Southern Mindanao,  these migratory birds may be considered as among the carriers of the dreaded Avian flu H5N1 virus.

DENR-Southern Mindanao director Reynaldo Calderon pointed out that precautionary measures have been put in place to make sure that the country remains bird flu-free.

"We are monitoring these areas frequented by migratory birds.Precautionary measures are also strictly being implemented in our airports and seaports to make sure that bird flu does not enter the country," Calderon said.

At least three of these areas are in Southern Mindanao — in Barangay Banaybanay in Lupon, Davao Oriental; Barangay Balasilan in Malalag, Davao del Sur; and in Barangay La Paz, Carmen, Davao del Norte.

Officials of the Protected Areas, Wildlife Division, Coastal Zone and Marine Management technical group of the DENR, although bird enthusiasts could still enjoy watching the arrival of migratory birds, they cannot touch the birds, particularly the exotic ones.

Buying, hunting, killing and touching of migratory birds have also been strictly prohibited to prevent the possible spread of the virus.

The Department of Agriculture here in Southern Mindanao is likewise continuously monitoring the stock of poultry products in the local markets.