BRASILIA  — The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been discovered among migratory birds in four Brazilian states. 

The Brazilian government announced on June 6 that it would provide funding to combat the virus in the country.

A provisional measure signed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva allocated R$200 million ($40.7 million) to fight the disease. 

“The fight against avian flu is an issue that deserves everyone's attention, as the spread of the disease could impact various sectors of the country,” said Carlos Fávaro, minister of agriculture and livestock (MAPA) in Brazil.

Actions taken to control HPAI by the country include rapid identification, testing and health care of suspected cases. Brazil said it is still free of HPAI in commercial breeding and maintains avian influenza-free status with the World Organization for Animal Health and continues to export its products for safe consumption.