3 Central Luzon areas log bird flu cases

MANILA, Philippines — Bird flu cases have been reported in three provinces in Central Luzon, according to the Department of Agriculture.

The DA’s attached agency, Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), said cases of avian influenza were reported in Tarlac, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija.

Some ducks, chickens and turkeys in Tarlac City tested positive for bird flu, the BAI said, adding the disease affected at least seven farmers.

It said ducks in San Luis town in Pampanga and Talavera in Nueva Ecija also tested positive for bird flu.

Meanwhile, the DA said up to 17 provinces and 46 municipalities have recovered from the virus.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said bird flu spreads among wild aquatic birds worldwide and could infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species.

Bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with avian influenza viruses have occurred.