Newcastle Disease has been confirmed in a population of poultry in Malta. In response, comprehensive measures have already been implemented to control and eradicate the disease from the bird population, the government said Saturday.
Veterinary authorities are taking concrete and immediate steps to manage the situation. These include strict controls, cleaning protocols, and continuous monitoring of poultry to prevent further spread of the infection.
Newcastle Disease primarily affects birds, and transmission to humans is extremely rare. In the unlikely event that a person is exposed, symptoms are usually very mild – such as eye irritation or flu-like symptoms – and are easily treatable. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Veterinary authorities are confident that the measures in place will effectively control the situation. The public is encouraged to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after contact with birds or poultry, and to follow any local guidance regarding the handling or trade of birds.
The public is urged to rely on official information and to avoid spreading misinformation. Further updates will be provided as necessary, the government said.