Three Galapagos birds test tentatively positive for H5N1 bird flu | Ecuador | News

Galapagos National Park (PNG) It was reported on Tuesday that five samples were examined following the discovery of dead birds in the archipelago, including Three people have preliminarily tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu).

However, it was added that the collected material will be sent to the National Public Health Institute (INSPI) in Guayaquil for confirmation.

According to details, the technical team of the Papua New Guinea Authority and the Galapagos Biosecurity Quarantine Control and Regulation Agency (ABG) They work to collect samples and perform laboratory analysis to determine the cause of the animal’s death.

Based on the preliminary results, the archipelago’s national environment department initiated biosecurity protocols to reduce the risk of the virus spreading.

“The country’s government deeply regrets the arrival of the virus in the Galapagos. We mobilized all our resources and experts to implement measures to reduce the impact on this unique ecosystem. ” said José Antonio Dávalos, Minister of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition. “We have an urgent appeal to the public: If you find a sick or dead bird, please do not touch or pick it up.“He added.

One of the first actions was the closure of visiting sites where affected birds were found: Genovesa and Punta Pitt (San Cristobal); and preventive measures in Punta Suarez and Punta Ceballos (Spain).

In addition, a notice was also issued to travel agencies Strengthen the disinfection of shoes and clothing when going to and from other land-based inspection sitescontinuing to disinfect outdoor common areas and the boats used for passenger disembarkation.

DPNG and ABG continue to monitor habitats and nesting areas for endemic birds such as penguins and Galapagos cormorants, and today deployed multiple teams to other parts of the archipelago to assess the situation. Naturalist guides and tour operators are asked to increase observation and surveillance of wildlife behavior and report immediately to established emergency hotlines.

A dedicated team has also been ordered to collect dead birds and carry out final disposal accordingly, as stipulated in the protocol, to prevent the spread of the virus. (Yo)