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Although we've heard of no new human cases out of Nigeria since last month, the risk remains, and the surveillance is poor. This from the FAO website.
FAO urges Nigeria to increase bird flu control measures
Improved hygiene and controls in markets could reduce the H5N1 risk to humans
20 February 2007, Rome - FAO has urged Nigeria to increase control measures on poultry farms and markets to prevent the spread of avian influenza and reduce the risk of further human cases.
A statement issued after a mission to Nigeria said that the virus is still circulating in poultry flocks in the country with outbreaks reported in at least 10 states over the past few months.
The virus probably spread along major trade routes within Nigeria placing neighbouring countries at risk by birds moved informally across borders. Increased surveillance could ensure that countries detect an incursion of disease without delay.
“The first confirmed case of H5N1 infection in humans in Nigeria shows that there is a continuing danger of human exposure to the virus from high-risk practices, such as handling sick or dead chickens, and especially from unsafe slaughtering of poultry at home or in markets,” said Joseph Domenech, FAO Chief Veterinary Officer.
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