Following the outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1), often known as bird flu, in Lomé, Togo, Ghana is on high alert.
The Volta Regional Health Directorate announced the epidemic and stated that it had resulted in the deaths of over 1000 birds.
According to a statement from the Ghana Health Service dated July 7, “The Volta Regional Health Directorate wishes to notify all stakeholders of the outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) in Lomé, Togo, on the 22nd June 2023. The outbreak has killed about 1,450 of a flock of 1,500 birds, with the remaining birds being culled. All districts, particularly those bordering the Republic of Togo, health facilities, and port health units are to heighten their surveillance activities for HPAI A(H5N1) disease”.
In a statement, the GHS advised people living in the area to stay away from wild birds and recommended them to only observe them from a distance.
“As a general precaution, whenever possible people should avoid direct contact with wild birds and observe them only from a distance. Wild birds can be infected with avian (bird) influenza (flu) A viruses even if they do not look sick. Avoid unprotected contact with domestic birds (poultry) that look sick or have died. Do not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with saliva, mucous, or faeces from wild or domestic birds.”
“Use protective equipment like gloves, an N95 respirator if available or, if not available, a well-fitting facemask and eye protection. Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after contact with birds or surfaces that may be contaminated with saliva, mucous, or faeces from wild or domestic birds,” the GHS advised in its statement.
The GHS also recommended medical establishments to step up their surveillance efforts for the HPAI A(H5N1) virus.
“All districts, particularly those bordering the Republic of Togo, health facilities, and port health units are to heighten their surveillance activities for HPAI A(H5N1) disease,” GHS entreated.
