Peru declares 90-day health emergency over bird flu outbreaks

Peru has declared a national health emergency for 90 days following the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza in two poultry farms. The measure, published in the official newspaper El Peruano, allows for extensions or reductions based on epidemiological assessments of the H5N1 virus.

The early detection system successfully isolated cases in Carabayllo, within Lima, and Cañete, approximately 135 kilometers south of the capital. The situation is reported to be under control, with affected animals in Cañete identified as fighting cocks. Owners of affected premises must comply with sanitary measures, facing sanctions for non-compliance.

Senasa, Peru's National Agrarian Health Service, is conducting epidemiological investigations into the infection's origin, contact tracing, and disinfection of facilities. Sanitary culling is also part of the quarantine measures. Surveillance in surrounding areas is ongoing to prevent further spread. Senasa has notified the World Organisation for Animal Health (OMSA) and guarantees that food security and the supply of poultry products remain unaffected.