The recent bird flu index case in Kano State was traced to a guinea fowl brought to a backyard farm of 50 birds, according to the Officer-in-Charge of Gwale Veterinary Clinic, Abdullahi Abubakar Gaya.
Speaking to journalists, Gaya explained that a young farmer presented the bird following sudden deaths in his mixed farm of guinea fowl, ducks, chickens, and turkeys. “The guinea fowl was purchased from Janguza market. After its arrival, some birds became weak, depressed, and died. Samples sent to the National Veterinary Research Institute confirmed it was highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1),” Gaya disclosed.
Kano’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, assured residents that proactive measures are in place, urging calm. Surveillance is ongoing across local government areas to contain any spread, with regular updates to be provided. Poultry farmers were advised to promptly report any unusual bird deaths to authorities.
