Duck Farm First H5N9 Case Confirmed in CamSur, Philippines
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H5N9 bird flu Philippines, avian influenza outbreak CamSur, duck farm virus, and highly pathogenic avian flu case.
MAY 07,2025
Camarines Sur, Philippines — Authorities have confirmed the first local case of highly pathogenic H5N9 bird flu in duck farms in Camaligan, Camarines Sur. The Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) announced the case on May 7.
The DA Regional Field Office V (DA-RFO V) collected duck samples during a routine check. On April 30, the Animal Disease Diagnosis and Reference Laboratory detected the H5N9 virus from those samples. While H5N9 is dangerous to birds, global health experts say it poses low risk to humans at this time.
Duck Farm Fast Action to Control the Outbreak
The BAI and DA-RFO V acted quickly. They:
- Quarantined the infected farms
- Ordered the culling and disposal of all remaining ducks (completed May 6)
- Deployed regional response teams
- Alerted the Department of Health (DOH) to track possible human contact
Authorities also met with the local government of Camarines Sur and the Municipality of Camaligan to plan containment steps.
Expanded Surveillance Underway
Starting May 7, the DA and local teams began intensive surveillance and disinfection within a 1-kilometer quarantine zone. They will expand this to a 7-kilometer radius. Crews will continue to monitor nearby areas, clean facilities, and watch for further outbreaks.
“We’re working with local units to contain the virus and protect the poultry industry,” said the BAI.
Public Urged to Stay Alert
The BAI asked the public, especially poultry owners, to report any sudden poultry deaths or signs of illness. These include:
- Drop in egg production
- Weakness or lethargy
- Discoloration in combs or wattles
“Quick reporting helps stop the spread,” the agency said. “We encourage everyone to stay alert and work with local vets or Agri offices.”
If ducks or chickens are infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) like H5N9, their egg production usually drops sharply or stops altogether. As for egg safety, here’s what happens:
Duck Farm – What Happens to the Eggs?
- Infected birds may lay fewer eggs or lay abnormally soft or misshapen eggs.
- If the bird is infected, the virus is not normally present inside the egg white or yolk, but the eggshell surface can get contaminated with feces or secretions.
- Raw or undercooked eggs from infected flocks can pose a slight risk, especially if proper hygiene isn’t followed.
⚠️ Are the Eggs Safe to Eat?
No eggs from an infected flock are allowed to be sold once bird flu is confirmed. Authorities immediately quarantine and destroy affected birds and eggs.
As long as eggs are:
- Cooked thoroughly (no runny yolks)
- Sourced from healthy, monitored farms
They are safe to eat.
💡 TL;DR: Yes, infected ducks can lay contaminated eggs, but authorities cull infected flocks immediately. Don’t eat eggs from sick birds. Commercial eggs from safe sources are still fine to consume when cooked properly.
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