ACCRA, GHANA – The Republic of Ghana confirmed an outbreak of highly pathogenic H1N5 avian influenza (AI) in some parts of the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture in Accra ordered a cull of more than 4,000 birds after more than 6,000 died, according to Reuters. The agency also restricted movement of poultry and poultry products within and from the affected regions which include the greater Accra, Central and Volta Regions. Importation of poultry and poultry products from neighboring countries where a prevalence of the virus is confirmed are banned.

“The Ministry wishes to assure the general public that there is no cause for fear and panic since the Veterinary Services Directorate is taking all necessary steps to contain the outbreak and spread of the disease to other parts of the country,” said Patrick Abakeh, DVM, director of the Veterinary Services Directorate. “The success of this call hinges on the full cooperation of the general public.”

Previous cases in Ghana were reported in 2007, 2015, 2016 and 2018, with significant economic impact on poultry farmers, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.