BAI confirms H5N2 bird flu in Camarines Norte, culls ducks

The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) confirmed on Wednesday that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Type A Subtype H5N2 was detected in a duck farm in Talisay, Camarines Norte.

Assistant Secretary and DA Spokesman Arnel V. de Mesa said the investigation is ongoing to determine how this strain entered the country, as it is the first recorded case of this subtype both nationally and provincially.

Following confirmation, BAI recommended immediate quarantine and biosecurity measures to prevent virus spread, resulting in the culling of remaining birds at the affected farm.

A coordination meeting was held with the Regional Quick Response Team for Animal Disease and Emergencies (RQRT-ADE) to review protocols under the Avian Influenza Protection Program (AIPP).

The Department of Agriculture in Bicol (DA-5) activated a command center and is working closely with local government units, BAI, and DOH to provide indemnification to affected farmers and ensure proper biosecurity measures are in place.

Mr. De Mesa added that the H5N2 strain is less likely to be transmitted to humans compared to the more common H5N1 subtype.