Blood samples collected from chicken and other fowls in eight local government units (LGUs) in Negros Oriental tested negative for avian influenza or the bird flu virus, an official said on Tuesday, August 20.

Jaymar Vilos, information officer-designate of the Provincial Veterinary Office, said in an interview that 240 blood samples were laboratory tested for the fowl disease in late July.

“We continue our monthly monitoring and blood sample collection in key risk areas in the province to ensure that we are safe from bird flu,” Vilos said.

He said the eight LGUs from which the blood samples were taken were the cities of Canlaon, Bais, Tanjay and Bayawan; and the municipalities of Ayungon, Manjuyod, Siaton and Sta. Catalina.

Migratory birds usually visit the areas as there are plenty of chicken and duck raisers.

Monthly monitoring is done without letup as migratory birds could be carriers of the Avian influenza virus, Vilos said. (PNA)