Ministry of Agriculture: Positive Newcastle disease results are found in broiler chicken samples. Bird flu infections are recorded in several municipalities.
The Libyan Government’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources confirmed it is monitoring broiler chicken deaths. These deaths are suspected to be caused by Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis.
Field monitoring is being conducted in cooperation with competent authorities. The Ministry explained through its media office that this monitoring involves the National Center for Animal Health. It also includes animal health offices in agricultural and animal resource sectors. These are located in Al-Bayda, Al-Sahel, Al-Marj, and Benghazi municipalities. The Agricultural Police also assists in these efforts.
Samples and analyses confirm Newcastle disease. The Ministry reported sending samples to the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Benghazi. This laboratory is affiliated with the National Center for Animal Health. The purpose was to conduct specific analyses for Newcastle disease. Results showed 18 samples tested positive.
Type A bird flu infections are recorded. The Ministry noted that the National Center for Animal Health also registered bird flu cases in birds. These were of Genotype A. Infections were found in Benghazi, Al-Marj, Al-Bayda municipalities, and Al-Tamimi area.
The Ministry links these registered infections to a lack of resources. It explained that these infections occurred due to a lack of resources. These resources are needed to procure vaccines, serums, and equipment for the National Center for Animal Health.