Agriculture Dept. takes action following bird flu cases in Lajas, Cabo Rojo
Implements 120-day quarantines,
other measures
By THE STAR STAFF
Agriculture Secretary Irving Rodríguez Torres announced on Tuesday the implementation of 120-day quarantines, along with biosecurity, epidemiological surveillance and sanitary control measures, after several birds in the municipalities of Cabo Rojo and Lajas tested positive for avian influenza, or bird flu.
“From the very beginning, we have acted proactively and in coordination with federal authorities. Now that we have laboratory results confirming the presence of the virus, we are reinforcing surveillance, biosecurity, and control measures to prevent its spread,” the secretary stated in a written release. “Our priority is to protect the health of our birds, support our producers, and safeguard the stability of Puerto Rico’s poultry industry.”
Investigations began following reports of multiple bird deaths at two properties in Cabo Rojo and Lajas. At the first location, the deaths of some 20 Muscovy ducks were documented, while the second location reported mortality among various species, including about 30 guinea fowl.
The measures include controls on the entry and exit of authorized personnel; disinfection of footwear, equipment, vehicles and materials; and periodic visits to assess sanitary conditions, monitor mortality rates and determine if further action is required.
The handling and disposal of dead birds will be carried out in accordance with the instructions of competent authorities. Likewise, any further decisions regarding surviving birds will be subject to epidemiological assessments and veterinary recommendations.
The agriculture secretary emphasized that a key priority is preventing the virus from reaching commercial poultry facilities or backyard flocks, as an outbreak could result in economic losses for producers, increased operational costs and potential additional restrictions on the movement of birds.
“We are in direct communication with regional producers and poultry industry representatives to reinforce prevention measures,” Rodríguez Torres stated. “We recognize the importance of this sector to our agricultural output, so we will remain vigilant for any signs that could pose a risk to our farms. Early detection and adherence to sanitary protocols are crucial to protecting our farmers.”
As part of prevention efforts, special attention will also be paid to interactions between wild birds and domestic or commercial poultry. Although the potential role of migratory birds is being assessed, authorities clarified that the specific origin of the cases has not yet been established; therefore, epidemiological investigations will continue.
While the risk of avian influenza infection for the general public is considered low, authorities noted that individuals who have direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments may face a higher risk.
For this reason, the public is urged to avoid touching, collecting, or moving sick or dead birds, and to refrain from handling them without proper guidance and protective measures.
Farmers, poultry producers, backyard flock owners, and the general public are asked to immediately report any instances of unusual mortality among domestic or wild birds.
Preventive recommendations include keeping domestic birds separate from wild birds, enhancing the cleaning and disinfection of facilities, limiting access to rearing areas by unauthorized persons, and promptly reporting any signs of illness or sudden increases in mortality.
Sick birds or multiple deaths can be reported by contacting USDA-APHIS at 1-866-536-7593. Guidance is available from the Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture at 787-721-2120.
