The Philippines has reported its first confirmed case of the H5N9 strain of bird flu, detected among ducks in Camaligan, Camarines Sur, according to the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI). The Department of Agriculture (DA), which oversees the BAI, confirmed the detection of the highly pathogenic H5N9 virus following laboratory tests.
The DA clarified that while the H5N9 virus is highly contagious among birds, the risk to humans remains low unless there is prolonged or repeated exposure. This strain, which was first identified in the United States earlier this year, is considered a mutation of previously known bird flu strains.
Local livestock in the Philippines have previously encountered other variants of bird flu, including H5N1, H5N2, and H5N6. The last recorded outbreak involved the H5N2 strain in Camarines Norte in January, impacting 15 out of 428 backyard ducks.
In response to the H5N9 case, the BAI has implemented strict containment measures in the Bicol Region. These include quarantine protocols, culling of infected birds, intensified surveillance, and coordination with local government units and the Department of Health to monitor any signs of human transmission.
Extended disease control measures are being enforced within a one-kilometer and seven-kilometer radius around the affected site, including thorough cleaning and disinfection to prevent further spread.