BIRD FLU HAS BEEN CONFIRMED IN THE TURKISH REPUBLIC OF NORTHERN CYPRUS
The European Commission has confirmed that the deadly strain of H5N1 bird flue virus has been detected in poultry in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
In a statement made by the European Commission today, the samples sent by the TRNC to England for laboratory tests has confirmed that the dead birds found in the Incirli area died from the virus.
After confirming the results of the test the Commission also announced that the European Union will be sending two experts to Cyprus to study the area and that it was ready to provide assistance to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
The authorities in the Republic have already taken precautionary measures in the village of Incirli.
Health teams working at the village completed disinfecting the village grounds on Friday.
A 24 hour disinfecting operation in and around the village started on Thursday as a precautionary measure against a possible outbreak after two domestic birds were found dead in the village.
All chickens and roosters have been culled in the area.
Meanwhile Prime Minister Ferdi Sabbit Soyer has held a press conference at the Prime Ministry confirming that the deadly disease has been discovered in the village of Incirli in the Republic.
He said that all necessary precautions have been taken and villages close to the area will also be inspected for any signs of the disease.
‘Now that bird flu has been confirmed in the Republic measures outlined by the World Health Organisation and the European Union have been put into effect. A meeting will also be held with Village officials from surrounding areas to discuss other measures that will need to be taken. All poultry trade in the Republic has been halted for the time being.’
The Prime Minister has also made a call to the Greek Cypriot side to cooperate with officials in the Republic to help prevent the disease on the island.
The Ahna lake which is home to migrating bird is very close to the Incirli village and it is believed that the disease may spread very quickly if precautionary measures are not taken by the Greek Cypriot authorities.
http://www.brt.gov.nc.tr/