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Avian Influenza Outbreak in Southeast Sulawesi
Konawe - Avian influenza has re-emerged in Konawe district, Southeast Sulawesi. In April 2011 alone, 832 birds in four subdistricts were recorded to die from this disease. The local government is requesting aid from the central government to mitigate the disease.
Head of the Animal Health Division of the Agriculture Service Office of Konawe, Erman Asnawi, said the number of avian influenza cases in April is a sharp increase compared to the previous month, which only scored tens of cases. “This month we predict the numbers will go higher,” said Erman on Saturday (14/5).
The increase of avian influenza cases could be a result of seasonal change which is ideal for virus proliferation. Also, animal movement, which is hard to control, makes birds in Konawe vulnerable to avian influenza virus introduction from other regions.
“Even so, we have not received any report of avian influenza infection in human,” said Erman. Konawe is one of several avian influenza endemic districts in Southeast Sulawesi since the disease first emerged in 2008.
As anticipative and mitigation measures, the Agriculture Service Office of Konawe is conducting spraying [of disinfectants] in affected subdistricts, which are Pondidaha, Unaaha, Anggaberi, and Wonggeduku. “We also urge poultry owners to be more aware of poultry movement,” said Erman.
But, comprehensive action is hindered by limited regional funds. The region could not provide compensation for farmers whose birds are destroyed and rapid test kits for viral testing in the field.
Erman said they have reported the increase in avian influenza incidence to the Ministry of Agriculture in hope of receiving aid. “But there isn’t any until now,” he said.
Chairman of the Regional Parliament of Southeast Sulawesi, Rusman Emba, demands immediate coordination with related offices at the provincial level to anticipate further spread of the disease to other areas in Southeast Sulawesi. “This is a serious problem because many people in Southeast Sulawesi depend economically on poultry farming,” said Rusman.
Regarding funding, Rusman said there are funds that can be used, such as for disaster posts. “It can be included in the Regional Budget Amendment,” he said. (ENG)
Source : Kompas