Bird Flu Detected in Sintra: Health Authorities Assure No Human Infections Reported

Bird Flu Alert in Sintra

The General Directorate of Health (DGS) has reported a case of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza, subtype H5N1, in a laying hen farm in Sintra. Authorities are taking necessary actions for control and eradication of this outbreak.

As of now, the DGS states that no human cases or symptoms suggestive of H5N1 infection have been recorded. They emphasized that while the virus transmission to humans is rare, should it occur, it can present severe clinical symptoms.

The risk to the general population remains very low, with transmission primarily occurring in professional settings through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Importantly, the virus does not spread through the consumption of poultry meat.

DGS is actively monitoring the situation and will keep the public informed about any health risks as necessary. Measures have been implemented, including the inspection of the infected location, culling of infected birds, and thorough cleaning of facilities. Restrictions on movement and monitoring of farms within a 10-kilometer radius of the outbreak are also in effect. The DGAV urges operators to report any suspected cases promptly to facilitate swift control measures.