Albania’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MBZHR) is actively monitoring the situation regarding bird flu, specifically the H5N1 virus. The ministry announced that a team of seven official veterinarians has been deployed to assess 2,304 farms housing approximately 96,900 birds as part of a comprehensive containment strategy.
Over the weekend, from October 30 to November 3, veterinary teams conducted clinical evaluations within designated protection and surveillance zones. This effort follows an “alert” issued by the Reference Laboratory – ISUV, prompting swift action to prevent the spread of the virus.
The ministry confirmed that samples from affected areas are being analyzed at ISUV, which is equipped to provide results within 24 to 48 hours. As of now, 90 official samples have been tested using advanced molecular RT-PCR methods, all returning negative results for human infections.
In collaboration with the Institute of Public Health, the MBZHR is conducting enhanced surveillance for respiratory infections in affected farm areas. “Restrictive and preventive measures will remain in effect until the end of the quarantine period,” the ministry stated, assuring continued coordination among national and regional crisis centers until all cases are resolved. (Tir-Fax)
