Bird Flu Outbreak in Kano Claims Dozens of Chickens

A bird flu outbreak hits Kano, leading to the death of dozens of chickens and raising concerns about poultry health and the potential impact on local farmers.

The Gwale Veterinary Clinic in Kano has reported that an outbreak of avian flu has resulted in the deaths of 32 birds in the area.

Dr. Abdullahi Abubakar Gaya, the head of the clinic, confirmed this during an interview with reporters in Kano on Wednesday.

Gaya stated that the first instance of the disease was noted on December 7, 2024, when a young man brought his deceased guinea fowl to the clinic.

He explained that following a preliminary diagnosis of the deceased bird, a sample was sent to the National Veterinary Reference Laboratory in Jos. There, it was confirmed to be infected with avian flu.

He reported that the guinea fowl, along with several other birds such as chickens and ducks that lived in the young man’s backyard, had died.

The veterinarian recommended that poultry owners keep newly purchased birds separate from the rest of their flock for a minimum of two weeks before integrating them.

He also suggested that they should promptly bring their birds to the nearest veterinary clinic if they observe any signs of illness, in order to take appropriate action.

Once more, he urged individuals to refrain from handling deceased animals and birds in order to prevent potential infection from diseases they might carry.

Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, the State Commissioner of Health, confirmed the disease outbreak and stated that it had prompted the state Ministry of Agriculture to implement proactive measures to prevent its spread.

To halt the spread, Yusuf stated that the state Ministry of Agriculture had cordoned off the affected area, culled the remaining chickens, and disinfected the compound.

He mentioned that the Ministry had decontaminated the premises at Janguza market where live birds are sold and informed sellers about the impacts of bird flu.

He stated, “Although the situation is manageable, residents—particularly those who raise poultry—are encouraged to promptly report any suspected cases to the authorities.”