GUIMARAS – This island province remains free of the avian influenza (AI) virus following recent testing by the Department of Agriculture’s Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL).
A total of 284 blood samples were collected from various poultry farms across the province as part of the ongoing surveillance and preventive efforts against bird flu. Laboratory results confirmed that all samples tested negative for the AI virus, assuring both local producers and consumers of the continued safety and quality of Guimaras’ poultry products.
Provincial veterinarian Dr. Ma. Theresa Macainan emphasized the importance of proactive disease monitoring.
“This latest result reaffirms our commitment to maintaining Guimaras as an avian influenza-free zone. Our farmers, stakeholders, and residents can remain confident that the province’s poultry industry remains safe, healthy, and resilient,” she said.
The provincial government, through its veterinary office, continues to enforce strict biosecurity measures, conducts regular surveillance, and educates poultry raisers on best practices to prevent potential outbreaks.
Local officials also urged the public and all poultry stakeholders to remain vigilant and to immediately report any unusual poultry mortalities to ensure prompt action.
The provincial government further encouraged poultry farm owners to avail the avian influenza sampling of the Provincial Veterinary Services Office./PN
