The Negros Oriental Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) is stepping up its monitoring of certain areas for migratory birds amid the cold weather in other countries.

PVO information officer-designate Jaymar Vilos told the Philippine News Agency that, so far, Negros Oriental remains free from avian influenza.

However, he noted that this is the time of the year when migratory birds flee the cold weather from other countries and come to the Philippines.

“We are stepping up our monitoring and surveillance in high-risk areas visited by migratory birds and the good news is that the latest blood sampling last December turned out negative for bird flu,” Vilos said.

The eight risk areas for avian influenza in Negros Oriental are Canlaon City, Ayungon, Manjuyod, Bais City, Tanjay City, Siaton, Sta. Catalina, and Bayawan City. (PNA)